5 TIPS FOR SMOOTH FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT
STAY FLEXIBLE
We’ll set a general plan before the session, but please be prepared to be flexible once we start shooting. Just look at it as an adventure, and we’ll have fun!
BRING A TREATS & TOYS
A lollipop, favourite toy or trip for ice cream can make huge difference in attitude. Just make sure you save it after the session, once the bribe comes out, it’s really hard to put it away without tears.
EYES ON ME
Although most of the family photo shoots is more natural, I usually photograph couple of quick rounds of family photos where everyone is looking at the camera. For those, please keep your eyes on me so we’re ready for the split second the kids flash me their smiles!
LET YOUR KIDS DO THEIR THINGS
I know it’s so tempting to ask your child to smile, but this can often lead to confusion about where to look and who to listen to. If your child isn’t smiling right away, don’t worry! I have lots of patience and trick up my sleeve, and we’ll get those natural smiles in no time.
KEEP IT POSITIVE
Please don’t get mad at your kids if they’re “not behaving”. The best thing you can do is model positivity and let me interact with them naturally. A great image only takes a millisecond to capture, so we’re probably getting a lot more great material then you think.
AT THE DAY OF YOUR FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT
GET THERE 15 MINUTES EARLY
The time we’ve chosen for your family photo shoot is very specific for lighting reasons, and it’s important that we start shooting right on time. Please arrive to your session location at least 15 minutes beforehand to allow time to find parking space, make clothing adjustments and find our meeting spots.
CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULES
If you can take the day off of work and don’t schedule any activities for the kids. Give yourself a relaxing morning at home and save your energy.
KEEP CALM
I know it can be overwhelming to get everything ready but try as hard as you can stay calm around your children. Kids pick up on stress easily and will be fussy at your family photo shoot.
FRAME IT AS FUN
Instead of telling your kids that we’re going to have photos taken, tell them that we’re going to have an adventure and go play with Mrs Kasia, which is true 😉
NAPS & SNACKS
Well rested and well fed children are must. Make sure they get a great nap before the photo shoot and that they’ve eaten. If you have a late afternoon/evening session, try to push naps a little later then usual if possible.
STAINS
Avoid colourful drinks or lollies within 24 hours before your family photoshoot, and don’t let your kids eat or drink anything that will stain on their face, teeth our mouths.
BACKUP CLOTHES
Sometimes dirt/food/ spit up happens. It’s good idea to have backup clothing just in case. You can also take with you lint roller, especially if you have pets.
CHECK YOURSELF
Here are simple checklist:
– keys/phones out of pockets
– fitbits, sports watch removed
– scrunchies off your wrists
– children’s noses and eyes wiped
– clothing ironed
ILLNESS/WEATHER CONDITION
If you or your child is sick please stay home and feel better. There’s no fee to reschedule to new date in case of illness. We will also reschedule if it’s raining, bellow freezing or extremely overcast. I will be keeping an eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your photo shoot, and I’ll let you know the night before if we need to reschedule. I know it’s tempting to start checking the weather a week out, but English weather changes often and quickly.
More information about the sessions here:
https://www.kasiakowalak.co.uk/sessions-information/
Family photo shoot styling guide:
https://www.kasiakowalak.co.uk/what-to-wear-for-family-photo-session/
My prices & packages: