Tip 1

Having everyone look at the camera is smile is golden, however, the photos clients typically treasure are the ones where no one is focused on me and the camera but on each other and giggling having fun.

Coming into the session, think of words/phrases that get some giggles out your kids or inside jokes and acceptable "potty words" to illicit a fun response. Talking about stinky feet always gets my kids going or pretending our daughter is our lovie is guaranteed to get lots of laughs. Prepare to love on each other, snuggle up, put your foreheads together and have fun! I know this can be a little awkward in front of a camera, but I promise it'll look great! 

Tip 2

Ah what to wear! Start with the hardest person first and choose 2-4 colors that coordinate. Having a good mix of solids and patterns adds visual interest, as well as layers (vests, cardigan, etc). Mixing patterns can sound daunting but go for it! To mix them, go with one bigger pattern (large stripes, flowers) and have the other be a smaller pattern (narrow stripes, gingham) so they're not competing with each other. 

Earthy neutral colors photograph really well whereas bright colors (hot pink, bright yellow or orange, etc.) reflect up in your face and can overwhelm a picture. Go for a more muted color for those like a dusty rose or mustard yellow. Don't just think about tops, but bottoms too. A colored pant versus just a khaki or blue jeans is a great way to add color in. 

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Please remember bloomers/bikers shorts for girls! If you girl is wearing a dress please put bloomers/biker shorts, or something over her diaper/underwear. Even for older girls since we do sitting down/laying down photos! It's very hard to edit out diapers/underwear that I can see! 

Tip 3

Have fun! Your joy will come across in the photos, and all the families members will feed off each other. Admittingly, people can feel a bit awkward getting their pictures taken. I get it...it's not my husbands favorite activity either. The best advice I can give is relax and have fun with each other! I'll direct you for some casual posed photos but also let the kids run and play and capture more candids. 

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I know it can be frustrating when a child doesn't want to smile or cooperate, the best advice I can give is prep them ahead of time but then in the moment, let me take the lead. Often times, kids will act differently for a stranger than a parent (especially as they get older). 

Tip 4

Bribery works! But you have to be smart about it. My kids do great with getting treats along the way where other kids melt down when the treats are taken away so they would do better with getting treats at the end. Also, M&M's and chocolate do not make good mid-session treats (stains the clothes!). Marshmallows or jelly beans would work. 

Tip 5

If you have a very little one please bring along some favorite noisy toys. I can play those and hold them by the camera to help get their attention! 

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