Family Photos: 7 Things To Do Before Your Family Session
Phoenix weather means outdoor family photos are available nearly all year long, but to have an incredible photography session there's a couple things you should know before you go!
1) Plan Your Outfits
Picking outfits can be big part of a photo session. Here's a couple tips to make it a smooth and easy process:
- Pick your outfits early! There is nothing more disappointing than finding the perfect outfit online and it won't make it in time, or going store to store and still not finding what you want. Be sure to pick and order outfits early! Some of my favorite stores for women include: Blush & Cactus, Shein, PinkBlush, and Maurices
- Choose Something You feel Beautiful and Comfortable in - It's hard to relax in front of the camera if you're worried about how short a dress is or shirts riding up. So be sure to pick something you feel amazing and comfortable in!
- Hang your outfits the day before - Big wrinkles can ruin some of the best photos, so plan ahead and have them steamed and hung out
- Have a Backup - If you're ordering online or have young kids, this is a must! Its not uncommon that things get lost or stuck in the mail, kids make a mess on them, etc.
- Don't forget the shoes! I'm 100% guilty of this for my own shoots. A few days before the shoot I'll realize I spent tons of time picking out outfits and forgot the shoes, so be sure to double check you have shoes for each person!
2) Get plenty of rest
This is SO key! Waking up the morning of your session, and feeling excited and refreshed, will go a long way to having an amazing photoshoot, especially for kids! So be sure to head home early the night before and get your rest!
- Note: For toddlers/babies, try to keep their napping schedule as consistent as possible, but remember they will react to you. If you're stressed or very excited, be prepared they may not want a nap. That's ok! You may just need to adjust your schedule after the photoshoot for some extra Zzzs.
3) Consider The Weather
While we may have a ton of sun, this can mean hot photoshoots. Especially if your shoot is between late April and early October, Phoenix can have temperatures in the high 80s or above. Couple things to keep in mind before your shoot:
- Avoid heavier clothing or choose an indoor space to keep you and your family cool
- Be thoughtful of windy days - use hairspray or pins, especially for dresses with a high slit
- Stay HYDRATED!! I cannot emphasis this enough. It's so easy to get overheated or feel faint when you don't have enough water in your system.
4) Double Check the Details
With the quality of photos these days, they show everything! While your photographer can absolutely do some basic editing, to make sure you get that look you really want, be sure to think about the details. Some things to think about:
- Hair - Shave/wax any stubble, touch up your roots, and grab any accessories you may need
- Nails - You'll want them clean and trimmed
- Try out Any New Looks- If you're going to try a new hair color or significantly different makeup, be sure to try it out ahead of time. That way you have time to adjust and feel confident and comfortable on the day of the shoot
- Teeth - While not necessary, if your heart is set on pearly whites consider whitening them with a kit or dentist
- Avoid Tan Lines / Extreme Spray Tans - Believe me, you don't want sunburns, distinct tan lines, or orange skin on the day of your shoot
5) Share Any Ideas You have Ahead Of Time
Have a gorgeous photo you want to duplicate? Have a large family and need specific combinations? Let's do it! Just be sure to share it ahead of time. This allows your photographer to plan ahead or talk through any concerns, whether they need to bring specific lighting, a ladder, or even an assistant. Some examples might be:
- Environmentally timed photos (Example: Sunset, fountains, etc)
- Extremely dark or bright photos (Example: Silhouette photos)
- List of photo combinations (Example: Full family, Grandparents / Grandkids, Boys, Girls, etc)
- Specific poses (Example: Overhead, in water)
6) Plan for Traffic and Arrive early
Between the Indy Race Track, the Cardinals stadium, and road closures, the west valley can be complicated for traffic, especially on the weekends. Be sure to leave a few minutes early, pay attention to available parking, and get there a couple minutes early! With little ones this also gives you a chance to change their clothes right when you arrive. This limits clothing wrinkled and ruined by accidents and wear!
7) Get Excited & Have Fun!
The best family photos are when you're relaxed and having a great time. Photoshoots are meant to be a wonderful experience and you don't want to feel so stressed about posing perfectly or unwrinkled clothes, that you miss all the fun. So relax, laugh, goof around, and see how your incredible family shines through!
