Okay, I get this! You wouldn’t believe the number of people who have explained that their family just isn’t the photo-takin’ type. Whether it’s because the littles ones want to run free, or because dad just can’t bear getting dressed up, or even moms who want to lose a few pounds before that photo session…It can be really hard to schedule a shoot with family members who would rather do pretty much anything else! So, what do you do when your family doesn’t want to participate?
- Book it anyways, and book more frequently! I know it sounds counterintuitive, but often it’s the lead-up that makes photo sessions more dreaded. Booking it gives you some finality, and gives everyone time to adjust to the idea and plan accordingly. Making it an annual affair will also give family members more time to become comfortable with the camera and with the idea of posing and/or dressing up.
- Make your session more comfortable for YOUR family: Many families struggle with the idea of formal clothes, which can be uncomfortable (some really hate things like heels, dress shirts, ties, etc.). Guess what? We don’t have to include these things! If your family loves being laidback, I’d rather garner some genuine smiles from them by doing a more casual session where everyone is in jeans or informal attire. If your family loves the beach or the forest, let’s head there! Putting people where they are familiar can help everyone feel more at ease.
- Make it special and fun: Plan your shoot at a time when it’s not nap time or the “witching hour” for little ones, and when everyone isn’t hungry and tired. Give yourself plenty of time to get dressed and ready and allow for full stomachs (lots of protein!)…this alone can alleviate most of the grumpiness on picture day. Then make the day fun! Get your favorite treats afterward, or go to dinner at your favorite restaurant. Make photo day a thing your family can look forward to because of the memories associated with it, instead of dreading it because of the stress.
- Ask questions: Allow your children or teens to write down questions they might have about the process. Did you know sometimes little ones are anxious because they don’t know what to expect? This can result in acting out or anxiety related behaviors, which could be solved way before the day of your shoot! I love answering questions from your family, and would be happy to help you prepare your little ones for a FUN day!
- You can bring up any concerns to me in private, too. If you or a family members is self conscious about weight gain or loss, acne, or braces, please let me know beforehand, so I can make sure to help you or them feel confident and posed in a way that shows off their best features. I’d love to know so I can guide the session accordingly. I don’t believe in over-editing or hiding flaws, but I do believe confidence results in better images!
Photos can truly be one of the best days of your year. Yes, it’s true. Many of our family clients now return to us year after year, because they trust the way we put their children and teens (and spouses) at ease. We would love to introduce you and your loved ones to the magic of great portraits days!
