There are definitely some things that can make or break your studio portrait session...or really any session. Here's a quick list of 8 of them to make sure you get the most out of yours.
Choose the right outfits.
What you wear to your session can absolutely make or break your images. Not only in how your clothes look, but also how they affect the way you look because of how you feel in them. Make sure you choose outfits that
Are classic and timeless.
Fit well and are comfortable.
Allow for standing, sitting, squatting, leaning over or lying down in them without any problems.
Don't have loud colors, logos or patterns.
Are neutral or earthy tones. (I have a style guide for this.)
For group photos, the outfits don't have to match. 2-3 colors that coordinate with a mix of solids, textures and maybe one simple pattern work well.
Communicate with Your Photographer
Make sure your photographer knows what types of images you're wanting for your gallery. Posed, candid, group, individuals, color, black and white. Light and airy or dark and moody. Classic or fine art.Discuss backdrops and props or no props beforehand. Also make sure they know about anything you might or might not want edited out, like acne, scars, birthmarks, etc.
Take Time to Settle In
Your studio session shouldn't be rushed...unless it's a mini. You should have time to come in, get settled, look around and get used to your surroundings, and get acquainted with your photographer if you haven't already. Kids especially need this time to warm up.
Let it Go.
Don't stress about whether or not your child will behave or smile. Pressuring them to act right and smile will only make them grumpy or lead to a fake, cheese grin at best. Let them get comfortable, let us talk and do some silly things, and let them be. If they're crazy, great. That usually turns into some great captures. If they're shy, great. Some of my favorite images of my daughter are her stoic expressions. Most of all, please be aware that your mood will affect your child. So just breathe and relax. Beautiful images come out of chaos and shyness.
Focus on Connection with Your Family
If you're doing a family session, get ready to get close and cuddly and just focus on your people. Some of your images will be looking at the camera, but several should be of you looking at and connecting with each other. This is a time to relax and enjoy being together as a family.
Set the Mood
Music is so good at setting the mood for a session. Kid tunes for the littles, a couple's favorite songs, or something the family enjoys listening to. A few candid dance moves might be captured in the process. Alexa is great at handling this for me in the studio.
Bring no one to the session hangry.
Bring snacks just to ensure it! I usually have at least some water, fruit snacks and goldfish on hand.
Use bribery.
Yep, I said it. Bribery can work wonders for those not excited about a photoshoot. (Even for the husbands.) Have something planned your child or family can have or do after the session. You might be surprised to find they didn't hate the session like they thought they would anyway.
Ready to schedule your own session? Let's do it! I'd be honored to document those special humans in your life.
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