Ok, this is a question my wife and I are fielding at least 3 times a week lately. I think that makes it worthy of it's own quick blog post. Here are some tips to help make your holiday photos a huge success!
Tip 1: Comfortable is key! Barefoot in jeans is fine if we're hanging out in the warmth of your home. If we're heading out to a park and it's 50 degrees outside, wear hats, gloves, find a funky scarf, wear your favorite jacket...you'll be comfortable, you'll have fun, you'll "look like yourself" and we'll get some great pics. Even drizzly/cloudy days don't have to be a problem...just think funky rain boots, cute umbrellas...cute kids jumping in puddles. I can roll with it if you can!
Tip 2: It's not a game of "Concentration" or "Memory" - you do NOT have to find something that will "match". That means, you don't HAVE to match your clothes to one another, and you don't HAVE to match your environment. Coordination, however, is good.
Tip 3: Invest in great prints, not in your clothes. So many clients book the session, blow the bank on clothing for a family of four, and then freak out when they realize they've spent so much money and still don't even have a print framed for the mantle. The clothes will be outgrown and/or outdated by next season....the print will last a lifetime.
Tip 4: Shop from what you already have in your closets. Think about what room in your home you're going to place your prints in. Start with one family member and pick something you know they look great in. Take it to the room where you'll hang your print. If it looks pretty good in there and doesn't clash, keep going. Move on to family member #2 and "coordinate" their look to the first choice, repeat for every family member. Only buy a super cute new bow for the little one and a funky new necklace or new lipstick for mom. You'll save money, but the look will feel new and fresh.
Tip 5: RELAX! A successful photo shoot depends more on mood than on clothing. If little Johnny is more comfortable running around in the fields, then let him. At least for a little while....we'll get the formal portrait later. Little ones are never comfortable right away, so parents don't let that get to you. Just hold them tight the first couple of shots. We'll get some intimate moments. Later, they'll be more comfortable and will work with some "poses". If that doesn't work, I'll bring out my secret weapon...guaranteed to get them laughing.
Tip 6: Bring props. Trucks, robots, sports balls all work well for boys. For girls, let them bring their favorite doll or tea set. Don't forget the treats for the dog. They don't have to be in every shot, but it helps kids feel more comfortable no matter what they're wearing.
Tip 7: Still freaking out? Blue jeans, black shirts. Classic every time.
Hope that helps and see you at your next session!
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