What to Wear to your Family Session

 Hi there!

I’m so excited we’ve connected to create magical memories for your family!  This is something I feel very strongly about. Things change. Children grow like weeds. Ever since becoming a mother myself I know how the fleeting moments of childhood pass through our hands. I’ve always cherished photos which is why I’ve chosen to become a photographer, but nothing means as much as the images I have of my own family. I want as many people as possible to have these memories captured for themselves. 

I know how you might be feeling. Preparing your family for the shoot can be a stressful time for a mother who already has so much to do in a day. I’ve been there! I hate having my photo taken and so does my husband. My daughter is an absolute whirlwind with a strong personality. Sometimes I feel like we will never get a good family photo! I wind myself up with what we will wear, my hair always goes flat and make up never looks right. I always break out just before a shoot.

For this reason, I’ve included a few tips I’ve come to learn over time in this welcome pack. I also send a short questionnaire for you to fill out so I’m ready when I meet you all. But mostly I just want you to know that I TOTALLY get it. And that I’m not worried. I want to capture who your family really are. I want you to show me the good, the bad and the ugly. Some of the best images can come from those moments as they are often the most heartfelt ones.

So, try to relax, and just enjoy. I can guarantee when you look back on the crazy captured in a few year’s time you’ll remember tenderly what the kids were like back then and how you didn’t look so bad even though you weren’t getting that much sleep! 

THINGS TO KNOW

Sessions are normally scheduled for around 2 hours before sunset. 

Having your hair and make-up professionally done can really make you feel amazing. I know talented artists all over Sydney so please let me know if you would like some referrals. 

WHAT TO WEAR

I’m always being asked “what should we wear” so below are some suggestions that I’ve found work really well for you and your family. It’s a balance of looking and feeling gorgeous but being true to yourself. 

Don’t leave this important step too late in the game. Once you have booked your session start planning right away. 

Have a look at my website and Instagram for inspiration. My previous clients have nailed it time and time again (and I know you will too!) 

Pinterest is a great place to start, I always create a private board to pin ideas to. Search for “colour schemes” and you’ll have a load of ideas to help you match colours in a creative way. 

Think about the location we have chosen to shoot in and the colours there and choose something that will blend nicely with those colours. I love patterns but they should complement the subject and scenery. No logos please. To keep the look timeless, try to avoid trendy clothing with words or logos. 

Most importantly… coordinate your outfits but don’t try to match them. Yes, this is an art but don’t worry I am here to help. Try laying out your clothes on the bed beside each other and you’ll see very quickly if something is not fitting in. Most of my client’s text me images of what they are considering to wear and I happily give feedback. 

Bring the right clothing 

Maybe you were envisioning a summer beach scene, but a cold snap has set in, or it’s incredibly windy outside. You’ll be happier with photos of smiling, bundled up children than with red-eyed, crying and shivering children in short sleeves.  It’s a good idea to have everyone bring a backup outfit, especially for the kids. You never know when someone might spill their juice or baby might have an accident on Dad’s neat ironed shirt!  Have fun planning! However you turn up on the day we will create beautiful images together. 

Prep the kids 

Yes, children will always be unpredictable! Try not to put pressure on them to “perform” as this usually goes the other way. Just leave it to me and I will gently guide them during the shoot with some tricks I have up my sleeve. Just relax.. I only need a 100th of a second to get the shot! 

Kids pick up on your stress, so stay cool, even when they throw a tantrum. (I have an almost 2-year-old so I’m all over ignoring this!) 

Some things that help… children should arrive with full bellies. Hungry children are unhappy children. If they still nap, make sure they get their full nap on the day of the shoot. 

Build up to the shoot in the days before as a fun event to look forward to, maybe followed by a treat like ice cream or a visit to the park.

I will usually bring a small treat or lollies for the kids if you are comfortable with that. It’s not something I usually believe in but photo shoots are one off!.

Remember our goal is to capture their true expressions, and keeping it light and fun is essential to that. 

If you have any questions please email or contact me on 0481394393. (Text or email is usually better as I can sit down and give you my full attention after baby is in bed). 

I’m so looking forward to getting to know your family better and creating some wonderful memories! Lisa xx