HOME FAMILY SESSION GUIDE
Bringing the photoshoot into your home creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere that truly showcases your family's magic. The soft, beautiful light and familiar surroundings effortlessly capture the essence and style of your family. Home sessions are particularly ideal for newborns and children who feel most at ease in their own environment or may find outdoor sessions challenging. Whether it's newborn cuddles in the nursery or playful moments in the living room, your home provides the perfect backdrop for authentic family memories.
Declutter some areas of your home
please don't stress at all about a major cleaning spree before your home session, but a bit of tidying and decluttering certain areas can help keep the focus on you in the photos.
We'll probably be shooting in your living room and main bedroom, so clearing off bedside tables and straightening up the living area would be fantastic if possible. Consider couches and bedroom areas which are great backdrops for gathering the family.
What to Wear
When it comes to choosing outfits, there's no strict formula. While earthy tones and neutrals often photograph beautifully, bright colors and patterns can also shine if coordinated thoughtfully! My main goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and confident, reflecting their true selves. I suggest opting for tones that harmonize well together—no need for perfect matchy-matchy, just complementary styles. As for black clothing, I recommend steering clear for a more vibrant and dynamic look!
Hop in the shower or bath
For newborn sessions in particular, consider stripping down for some gorgeous skin-on-skin shots in the shower or bath. There's a captivating beauty and rawness to these images that I adore. I relish the chance to explore and experiment during these sessions, eager to discover the magic we can craft together.
Adjust your expectation of your kids behaviour now
They probably won't be little angels the whole time, and that's perfectly okay. In fact, it's what makes our photos authentic and special. It's better to let go of any expectation of their behaviour so you can relax on the day without stressing. We want them to be their natural, playful selves – running, laughing, and just being kids. Those spontaneous moments are what make our memories unique and unforgettable. So, don't worry if they're not posing perfectly. Let's embrace the realness and capture some genuine family moments together.
Begin the session with everyone feeling satisfied and content.
While I understand that nap times can be unpredictable, ensuring the kids are as happy as can be on the day is great idea. If sleep schedules are out of sync, feel free to reach out to me to discuss the possibility of adjusting the session time.
Starting the session with everyone well-fed is likely to contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable experience for all!
Let go of coaching your kids to smile
Go with the flow. I think this is my favourite tip! I know how kids can be, I have photographed hundreds of families. Try and remain calm and in the moment, I am there to help with the kids and my job is to do my very best to be their friend & have them follow my lead. In between what can feel like chaos, there are also laughs and smiles that I will on the lookout for to capture their natural laughter rather than anything forced
