As a seasoned senior photographer, my lens is attuned to the significance of preserving life’s best moments. Among these, the homecoming of your college student for the holidays stands out, especially when it’s their first visit home. It’s a time when families reunite and often expectations can be high. Because of this, there are often unexpected hurt feelings and miscommunications that can derail holidays. It’s important for parents and seniors to prep for that inaugural visit home:
Set the scene: The first step in creating lasting memories is to set the scene. Embrace the festive spirit by decorating your home with holiday cheer. Consider a cozy backdrop with twinkling lights, a crackling fireplace, or the family gathering around the dinner table. These elements not only create a warm and inviting atmosphere but also serve as the perfect canvas for capturing genuine smiles and shared laughter. It’s important to make room for new traditions and ideas, as well as to create stability with old and expected moments.
Plan a time for a family photo: Take advantage of the holiday break to plan a dedicated photo session. Choose a location that holds sentimental value, whether it’s the family home, a favorite park, or a place with special memories. Encourage your college student to bring along items that represent their college experience – perhaps a university hoodie or a prop that symbolizes their major. This personal touch adds depth and meaning to the photos, and represents the new chapter you’re in as a family. This is an ideal time to do professional photos, but remember to let everyone know ahead of time and not to spring it on everyone (which is stressful!).
Let your expectations be clear and gracious: Your college student is navigating all the emotions of being home for the first time, and that can feel emotional or overwhelming for some. It helps if you give them a general schedule so they know which family moments they will need to be present for, and when they can also make their own plans to see friends. Remember that your college student who lives out of the home has been living on their own, and is more independent. It helps if you can respect their independence by showing them courtesy when creating a schedule, as well as asking them what things they may want to do.
Have a clear understanding of the start and end of the visit: Verify with your student when they will be arriving or leaving, and check in with them to see if they have assignments they need to complete when they are home. Asking this helps prevent misunderstanding and frustrations about when they will arrive or leave. Remember to allow time for students who are flying back and forth, and weather delays. A clear beginning and end will put everyone’s mind at ease and create a healthy boundary.
As a senior photographer, my advice extends beyond the lens – be present in the moment. While capturing memories is fun and important, it’s equally important to immerse yourself in the joy of having your college student home. Put down the camera from time to time, engage in meaningful conversations, and savor the togetherness. The holidays are about creating memories, and being fully present allows those memories to be not only captured but also deeply felt!
In the end, the goal is to create a visual story that reflects the love, warmth, and joy of having your college student home for the holidays. Through thoughtful planning, a blend of posed and candid shots, and a genuine presence in the moment, you can
