I always learn things when I take a turn as a photography client. We got a 2020 update for our family photos with mega talented friend Angie Bonin of Angelina Rose Photography.
She wanted to photograph us in a place that felt comfortable for us. I kept coming back to the woods and while I was out for a walk with my dog one day I thought this little open area along Ashland’s reservoir was perfect
8 pieces of advice for your next photoshoot at the bottom 🙂
But my favorite picture? You can’t even see the space. I’m sitting on ground, bum in the dirt giving them a hug and tickling their tummy. And I’m not surprised this is my favorite photo. The photos I want are about connections and it’s not even important that six eyeballs aren’t looking at the camera.
Second favorite photo? Ha! I think I was attempting a nice group shot where I might get my dog to sit with us. She bumped into Eddie and everything fell apart. Andy’s hugging my leg, Eddie’s crying, Chloe is shaking off water from just going swimming.
Bless Angie and clicking through the moment. Of course Eddie was ok. I had some snacks (aka: treats, bribes! PLEASE will you just take a few more photos, I’ll give you candy!) and we sat and ate sour patch kids until all was right with the world again.
I feel so grateful to have photos that look so much like us. During a year that was difficult but clearly not impossible – we’re still here, together.
It’s only been a few weeks but I look at these images often and I know that they’ll appreciate in value over time.
- Favorite clothing advice: “Look like you’re going to the same party”. For me I wanted to wear that zip up jacket & jeans because I knew it would be flattering sitting down, without much fussing. The boys wore their usual shades of blue and gray which works and is easy for them. My go to outfits for photoshoots are the favorite things that are already in my closet.
- Pick a location that’s quiet space where you enjoy spending time. Don’t underestimate how wonderful it is to shoot in your own backyard. All the toys, snacks, clothing changes are right inside.
- Pick a shoot time that works for your family. “Golden Hour” right before sunset might be beautiful but will your children be happy shooting right before bedtime? Mornings are a great time to shoot for babies and young children. Also, consider shooting during the week. Lots of scenic spaces are busy on the weekends and you can enjoy beautiful spaces if you carve out some time on a Thursday morning.
- Everyone loves a portrait where the whole family flashes their very best smile, eyes open, all at once and it’s certainly worth an attempt once or twice but it’s not the only goal. Meaningful family moments happen when not everyone is looking into the camera.
- Take time to play and pull out all the stops to make your children laugh. You know all the tricks. Tickle, tell jokes, sing songs, do a funny dance, run around, bring toys.
- It’s great to have something that your child loves to interact with, bring that along to break up the shoot. Bubbles, a ball, wooden trains, books.
- Have snacks and water for a break halfway through shooting. Something that they’ll love but isn’t going to be messy. Cheerios, goldfish, cheese sticks, fruit snacks. I’ve made all the mistakes before with oreo cookies, chocolate, juice. Save those for after the shoot.
- Make plans to celebrate after the shoot with something special. Ice cream for a job well done??? That sounds perfect!
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