Everything You Need for a Smooth Family Photo Session Experience in 2024
This History of Family Portraits
For centuries, family portraits have been an important priority for family units of all backgrounds, classes and creeds. Before the invention of photography, a painted, sculpted, or drawn portrait was the only way to record the appearance of someone — how wild is that?!
In ancient times, affluent families would commission artists to create portraits as a way to document their lineage and social status. However, it wasn't until the Renaissance period in the 14th century that family portraits started to become more common among the middle class. The advent of photography (woop woop!) in the 19th century brought about a revolution in family portraiture, making it more accessible to a wider range of people.
Nowadays, family snaps are casually clicked via mobile devices almost every day! It’s not long before they’re added to a busy feed of your colleague’s turkey club, your sister-in-law’s vacation recap, or your old classmate’s weight loss progress pics. In an age where digital media dominates, it's easy to overlook the significance of physical photographs which are documented with intention.
Yet, family photos hold a timeless value that cannot be not found in many other forms of documentation. In many cases, their value cannot even be quantified. These snapshots of cherished moments capture the essence of our lives, preserving memories and strengthening the bonds within our families.
Easier said than done though, right?
Well, turns out preparing for your next professional family photo session might not be as complex as you might think. The best way to combat pre-session jitters is to plan ahead and hire according to your needs. Start by asking yourself:
Who should we include? The dog, my mother-in-law, or just my immediate family?
What should we wear? What areas of the home could use an artwork refresh?
Where’s the best locations for family portraits?
When is the best time to take them?
The “Who”
Who should we include? You have three main options here: immediate family (kids + parents), partial extended family (kids, parents & grandparents), and full extended family (add cousins, aunts, uncles and in-laws.) If you want to keep it simple, keep it small. All families should book an immediate family session at least once every 2-3 years, and I highly recommend inviting grandparents in most cases.
Now, if you’re looking to capture that once-in-a-lifetime family photo which includes all the cousins, in-laws & kiddos, be sure to assign a “point person” who will be speaking with the photographer, choosing the location, and settling on the color scheme. Keep in mind, photo sessions are a great time to not only capture group photos, but also breakout group images like individual headshots, sibling photos, mother-daughter, father-son combinations, couples etc. so be aware that there may be less time per breakout grouping if the group is rather large.
When it comes to pets, consider their temperament when outdoors, and how they’ll be looked after when it’s time to take a few photos without the furry friends. Will you keep them on a leash? Do you have someone who can look after them in an air-conditioned car while you finish up the session? These are important questions to consider.
The truth is, the fewer people, the more calm a session typically runs. But, hey — there’s a time for everything, right? If this is your first time in 5+ years taking family photos, it might be wise to prioritize your own immediate family. Then, when the timing is right, set out to plan the extended family photo session.
The “What”
What should we wear? We've all been there: the classic denim-and-white family photo outfits, or maybe you even the all-black look. It was easy, sure. Was your family photo still special? Of course! But if you want to take your family portraits to the next level, consider watching this video or reading this blog post I made for specifically for choosing family photo session wardrobe.
Here's the "spark notes" version:
Aim for a coordinated look that's effective, not easy.
Mom's outfit is the centerpiece - all other looks coordinate with the queen.
Do the "camera test" in your outfit before the shoot to make sure you like how it looks from all angles.
Choose a contrasting 2-color set and add in LIGHT neutrals like off-white and cream colors.
BONUS TIP: think about the colors featured in your home, and choose outfits that will not clash with your decor, since you will have artwork to display in the home once your session experience is complete.
The Jefferson Family did a fabulous job combining maroon, navy blue and cream for their family photo session set in the woods.
What artwork should we invest in? Beyond digital images, physical print products are the best way to ensure that family portraits are seen, talked about & enjoyed for years to come. Portrait art represents a feeling of love, and a celebration of life! Whether you choose a gallery-wrapped canvas collection, a modern acrylic-art piece, framed gift prints, or (our personal favorite) an heirloom photo album — your photos will be shared and loved as they’re intended to be. Ask your photographer which products are offered in their product offering suite, whether physical, digital or both.
After your session, we’ll walk you through your different artwork options so you can find which items are best suited for your unique needs and home decor.
The “Where”
Where are the best family photo shoot locations? To answer this question, ask your photographer for their local recommendations. Here in Southern California, many families opt for the beach, a woodsy backdrop with rolling hills, or a modern location with edgy architecture. Of course, keep in mind that certain locations lend to weather variations. For example, if you’re looking for a beach backdrop, note that you probably want to be barefoot, and be okay with a bit of wind or other natural elements typical of a beach setting.
The “When”
When is the best time to take family photos? The best time to have your family photo session will depend largely on the weather in your local region. Typically, spring and fall seasons are ideal for their mild temperatures and shifting foliage.
When is the best time to book family photos? Be sure to reach out to your favorite photographer at least 3-4 months prior to the date you wish to book them for, especially if you’re hoping to use your photos for a holiday card. In this case, August or September are usually great months to start prospecting with local photographers. This also gives you plenty of time to plan ahead for outfits, hair & makeup, and family dinner reservations to celebrate the wrapping of your photo session.
The “Why”
Lastly, why do family photos really matter? Let’s not forget…
Family photos serve as powerful mementos. Each photograph depicts a specific moment frozen in time. As the years go by, these photos become treasured heirlooms, enabling us to revisit and relive cherished memories. They serve as a visual thread connecting generations, allowing us to share stories of our past with younger family members who otherwise might never have known the experiences that shaped their family tree.
Family photos foster a sense of identity and belonging for family members of all ages. They remind us of our roots and the people who have shaped our lives. As we gather around albums filled with snapshots of our loved ones, we strengthen the bonds between family members. Our shared experiences and memories are visually represented in these photos, serving as a tangible reminder of the love and support that surround us. This visual affirmation of our connections to one another becomes even more important in today's fast-paced world, where distance and distractions can sometimes weaken family ties. Not only does seeing family photos around the house help young children feel grounded and connected to their roots, but family photos also allow older adults to reflect on their lives, maintain their sense of who they are, and remember how they fit into their family.
Family photos empower us to appreciate the beauty in life's simple moments. In our busy lives, it is easy to overlook the little joys and small victories that make up our days. By capturing these moments, family photos allow us to slow down and reflect on the significance of seemingly ordinary events. They encourage us to value the present and treasure the relationships and experiences that bring us happiness. Family photos remind us of the immeasurable value of love.
Family photos ensure our legacy endures for future generations. They serve as a visual representation of our family history, passing down stories, traditions, and values to future descendants. Through these photos, we leave a lasting imprint on our children and grandchildren, offering them glimpses into an era they may never know otherwise.
Are you looking for to document your beautiful family in a way that lasts? To learn more about designing your own family photo session, fill out the form below!
