Preparing for Family Portraits
Do you have an idea in mind of how you want the end result to look? Please portray this to me, my job is to take your idea and make it happen. Not every idea is possible, but I will always do my best to make your vision a reality. I am happy to go over ideas and offer suggestions of how things can be arranged and locations for your perfect family portraits.
When picking out clothes, do not wait until the last minute. Try the outfit on and see how you feel in it, make sure you can stand, walk and sit in it comfortably. Try to stay away from patterns and logos, please. It’s a good idea to have everyone roughly coordinate (or, at least, not clash horribly with their siblings). Go through your family’s wardrobes and see if any color schemes emerge, but do not go for the fully matched result. Choose complimentary colors, blue and yellow, pink and green to name a few. Don’t forget the small details - accessorize! It’s key that everyone tries on all the clothes prior to session day; you don’t want to be upset in the end because you did not realize there was a huge stain or rip in your children’s clothes that you did not know was there. (Bring extra outfits for babies, in case of spit-up). Taking your child’s favorite toy or blanket will not only capture the special memory in the photograph but will also help keep your child happy and cooperative. For a more visual idea, check out my Pinterest page which has a large variety of color schemes and examples of what works well.
Kids who haven’t napped or who are off of their routines are more difficult to keep happy. Try and schedule your photo shoot at a time when your kids will be the most at ease. Kids are kids and should be able to express themselves, don’t get upset or yell at them for making faces at the camera. Once they open up and realize how much fun it can be, those natural beautiful smiles will be a lasting memory in your home. Laugh with them and even makes goofy faces, as your family is having fun together the photographs will show just that, the happiness of the day you’ll cherish forever.
Remember to have fun, and don’t sweat the small stuff! In 5-10, even 20, years, you’re not going to care that your child was playing with the sand instead of striking the perfect pose you wanted them to. You’ll simply be glad you captured them as a little ones.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago family photographer and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand-picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago family photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.