July 19, 2022
We’re coming upon a new season and that means it’s likely time to update your family photos! What feelings come to mind as you envision all that goes into preparing your family for your portrait session? Maybe you feel overwhelmed at the thought of planning the outfits. Maybe you’re worried about how your kids will behave. These are very common feelings! However, as an experienced Eugene family photographer, it is my job to help alleviate as many of these pain points as I can and to help you have the very best portrait experience possible. In today’s post I want to share with you three reasons I think it’s important to enjoy this time of having your family photos taken, as well as two ways I help ensure you enjoy your session!
If you’re like most families, you have your photos taken once or twice per year. After a child in your family reaches adolescence, they’ve experienced quite a few family portrait sessions. This time can serve as a wonderful memory for children. In fact, I remember having our family photos taken when I was young and I look back on those memories fondly. Many of my previous families have made a big deal out of this special time of taking photos and end it with something fun like a sweet treat or movie night. However you choose to make it special, I encourage you to see this time as an opportunity to create a wonderful family memory for your children and for yourself.
Some of my very favorite photos to take of my clients aren’t necessarily the ones where everyone is standing and smiling at the camera. While these are important to capture, my favorite images are the candid shots where big brother is chasing little sister or dad is tickling the kids. These photos so clearly display the joy of being a family. Typically, these shots don’t happen unless everyone is actually comfortable and having a good time. Going into your session with a sense of joy and excitement will help ensure that you get some of these wonderful candid shots!
I mentioned at the beginning of this post that sometimes the thought of planning family photos can fill a person with dread. However, once you’ve experienced a session with a seasoned photographer who helps take care of the planning, you’ll find that you actually look forward to this special time of having your portraits taken. Getting to see everyone in their best attire, playing together at a special, fun location and going out for a treat afterwards – what’s not to like?! Many of my clients have told me after being photographed that they loved the experience of their portrait session, and that even their husband had a great time! Yes, it’s possible! I think you’ll find that with a little mindset shift and the right photographer, family photo sessions can become a cherished thing to look forward to!
There are two ways that I help families feel more comfortable during this time of capturing their family – the planning process and posing prompts. From the moment you book your session with me, I take the reins and will help you as much as you need with the planning. I can make outfit and location suggestions as well as give some tips for preparing your kids for the day of the session.
Another way that I make my clients comfortable during the session is by providing posing prompts. One of the biggest concerns past clients have had is not knowing how to pose. This should not be a concern at all – I will direct you with posing prompts to make sure your images are flattering and beautiful!
If you’re ready to update your family photos at a session you will enjoy every minute of, click HERE to get started!