How to Prepare for Your Holiday Family Photoshoot
‘Tis the season…for family photoshoots and holiday greetings!
The holiday season can be one of the most wonderful times of the year. In the midst of all that holiday cheer, it’s also the most wonderful time for your holiday family photoshoot.
Whether you’re planning to use the photos for holiday cards or you’re diligently updating your family photo book, you’ll want to be fully prepared so you can get the most out of your holiday session.
Fortunately, you’ve got a professional bestie like me to set you on the right path. Check out my pro-tips in preparing for your holiday family photoshoot with me.
Tip 1 – Coordination is Key!
There are few things more precious than a family who coordinates their outfits in a family photo.
This rings true during the holidays, too.
Here are some questions to consider when coordinating your next family outfits:
- Should you wear matching pajamas, or are you leaning towards a fancier theme?
- Should you go with a classic flannel, or bold solid colors?
- Will your session be outside or inside (be sure to consider the weather)?
- Furbaby? Have them coordinate too!
Note: if you’re planning to use the photos for holiday cards, you may want to take the background settings and color of the cards into consideration. For example, if you’re going to use earthy tones on the cards, or if you’re considering choosing an outdoor location, colors such as red, tan, or white will pop nicely and be visually appealing. If your cards will incorporate red tones, you should consider a background setting and colors that would fit well with the overall aesthetic of your cards. For the best results, choose colors that are opposite of the ones in the background of your cards
Tip 2 – Bring in the holiday props!
Even if you’re going the traditional route for your holiday session, it’s always a good idea to think about using some props to bring out the holiday spirit in your photos.
Props can be great for photoshoots with kids, too! Who doesn’t love a Santa baby?
Here are a few ideas for props you can bring with you to the session (of course, feel free to add your own):
Family ornament or heirloom
Holiday stockings
A letter to Santa with cookies and milk
A favorite stuffed animal or toy
Favorite blanket
For pets: favorite toy or snack to keep their attention
Tip 3 – For the little ones…
Fellow parents, the first thing you should do is check out my blog on my best tips for preparing for our family photo session with the kiddos.
Be proactive about a travel bag. Have the snacks, drinks, after-photo incentives, and an emergency change of clothes–you know, in case of any accidents–ready to go.
You can get the kiddos even more excited by having them choose their favorite holiday prop for the photo (from your approved options). The look of pride in their eyes when they get their chance to show it off will be priceless–and my goal is to capture that moment.
The important thing to remember here is that you can take advantage of props! Even if you don’t bring any, you can rest assured. As a mother myself, I know how to get on their level and speak their language. I know how to bring out that precious smile!
Tip 4 – Get ready to laugh and be merry!
In our session together, you can expect to let loose and have fun (’tis the season after all!)
I’m here to capture and memorialize your genuine family chemistry. Say goodbye to rigid smiles and forced poses, all you need to do is be ready to laugh and be merry. No pressure.
Break out your holiday accessories! Let your spirit shine and express yourself.
Tip 5 – Book your session in advance.
The most wonderful time of the year can also be the busiest.
Don’t let a full appointment book be the reason your friend with that “really great” camera takes your family photos this year. While the sentiment is sweet, you and your family are worth going that extra mile, or in this case, that early booking to reserve your spot with me.
Booking in advance also gives you plenty of time to visualize what you want your family photos to represent. My goal is to make memories that will last for generations to come.
Schedule your free consultation today!