I really don’t want to let go of summer, I mean, I really don’t want to let go of summer and everything that goes with it. Living close to the beach just makes me love summer even more and personifies its meaning to me. You know what I am talking about, all the things that make up summer—flip-flops, ice cream, BBQs, and long summer days turned nights where meeting a schedule isn’t top priority. But as we move after labor day, we start to trade in our flip-flops for boots and ice cream for pumpkin spice and soon the weather cools and the leaves start to change colors. Then as I sit and look at the season before me, I have to say, it is OK summer, I will see you next year. Fall is pretty beautiful indeed.
One of the reasons that I love fall, as a photographer, is because it’s ’tis the season for family photography with a beautiful, colorful backdrop. Many families like to take their annual images in the fall, but one of the other huge reasons are the holidays are knocking at our door. I have some tips on family portraits below, but before we get into that let’s talk about the family portrait.
To me, the family portrait means something really special. It means, living in the moment, capturing something that is special and unique to that one small second of time. It is telling the story of the family because every. single. story. matters. We are blessed to be so rich in love but sometimes we forget. Sometimes, we need to be reminded by looking at our loved ones, all together in our images to say, yes, this is my life; yes, these are my loves and yes, to family portraits for giving that back to me, for making me remember. It is all about the relationships we share with our families while nourishing and treasuring them. I have always been on a mission to Redefine the Family Portrait and each session I have is a blank canvas where I am the artist looking to paint your story.
So don’t be stressed when it comes to scheduling or preparing for your session. The best pictures in life are not always posed but captured as you are living it in the moment. Here are some ideas to help you have a fun, memorable session so throw away those thoughts of a being panic stricken. You got this.
- Plan ahead. You don’t have to go crazy planning, lifestyle shots always end up being the best and bringing out family personalities. Do whatever you need to do to feel confident. Most parents like to pick out what they are wearing ahead of time so everything is clean and coordinated. And lastly, relax when you get to the session, your images will then reflect your best selves!
- Color themes and color pops. You don’t have to be matchy-matchy. Stick with some neutral colors and then add a pop of color that everyone can wear one way or another. It will look more natural.
- Chat with your kids before-hand. Kids love being informed so having a chat about the session might make them more willing to cooperate. With that said, sometimes no matter what, there are going to be little ones meltdowns and tantrums. Take it in stride. Some of the funniest, best pictures can be taken at this time.
- Be you. Dress how you feel comfortable. If you feel relaxed and your loved ones feel great, a happier session evolves—it is a no brainer.
- Small bribes, hurt no one. Sometimes small bribes may work with your kiddos….”if you smile for the camera, we will go for ice cream after we take pictures.” It could work so don’t knock it until you try.
- It’s all about trust. Trust your photographer, don’t nag and make your kids nervous. I know it is a normal reaction to make sure our kids behave—I’m a mom too, but leave it up to the photographer because chances are they have dealt with it many times and know what to do.
Here are some of my favorite special family moments.
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Angelsea Urban is a entrepreneur and photographer helping families to nourish their homes, relationships and businesses through meaningful portrait photography, business consulting and management for entrepreneurs, teaching practical stewardship and home management systems, and creating simple products and tools that maximize the quality of our lives. Her unique photography work focuses on Redefining the Family Portrait Experience by telling the story of family through personalized foundations while creating a space to strengthen family bonds throughout the experience. As a certified tax professional and seasoned business consultant, Angelsea has helped the careers of photographers, restaurateurs, musicians and general small business owners through teaching, workshops, coaching, and hands on consulting. She has photographed for families, brides, Bravo TV, NFL Films, and more and has been published in multiple blogs and magazine print for her work in photography and in strategic business management. Angelsea teaches and photographs throughout the United States, and resides with her husband of 17 years, their two children, and their barely 3 pound Yorkie near Long Beach Island, New Jersey.
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