Here are some top tips to help you plan ahead to ensure your shoot is NOT stressful BUT successful and you get the memories you are looking for, Ready? Here we go:
- CHOOSE A GOOD TIME OF DAY:
When you are booking your photoshoot, we will arrange a time that is suitable around your family, especially if you have young children and they might need a sleep. If you want the golden light the best time for lighting is two hours before and after sunrise so where possible we will make a time around then.
2. MAKE TIME TO GET READY:
Allow plenty of time to get ready and get to the location, there is nothing worse than arriving stressed or late! Mums are often rushing around getting everyone ready and dressed for the shoot. If you have time to prepare everyone will feel happy and confident during the shoot, this will definitely reflect in the photos! Plan your outfit in advance of the day, don’t leave it until the last minute. Feel free to text me photos of your wardrobe if you’re having a hard time choosing! I’m happy to help.
3. PREPARE THE FAMILY:
Tell them what is going to happen, that it’s going to fun! Maybe come up with some ideas of what you are looking for together or bring some props to personalise your photos. When you do something you love doing together, I will be there taking some natural and beautiful photographs.
4. HAVE FUN WITH YOUR FAMILY:
Don’t be afraid to pick up your children and play with them. Have fun, Laugh, Joke, hug and play – show emotion. By doing these things will allow me to capture you and tell your story through the photos we create together.
Help me create more candid shots by playing with your children!
5. THE BEST PHOTOS CAN BE THE ONES WHEN YOU AREN’T LOOKING AT THE CAMERA:
Having fun with your family is the key to great natural photos and some of the best photographs are often the ones where you are not looking at me.
6. DADS AND TEENAGERS:
I understand that some of the family members might not want to take part in the photoshoot, but when they know how fun we can make it then they are normally the ones that give so much to the photos when we least expect it.
7. BRING A DRINK OR SNACK FOR YOUR CHILDREN:
If you have young children please feel free to bring something for your children to eat and drink, maybe even some surprise treats that might help to get their winning smiles!
8. I AM A PARENT:
I understand that children might need a break for a drink, need a diversion, they might get dirty, that a 2-hour photo shoot will be too long! I will help to make the photo session as fun as possible! I have been photographing families for over 15 years, so I have some great ideas to ensure we get everyone having fun and smiling!
- ARE THERE ANY SHOTS YOU WANT?
Please let me know any specific photos you are looking for, you are welcome to send me a list in advance. Do you want some photos of your children individually for example? Maybe you with the children and then dad with the children…
If you would like any more help with choosing what to wear, please contact me: info@dhwp.co.uk
After the photo shoot your images will typically will be ready around 2 weeks later on your own web gallery where you can choose your favourites. If you need any help with displaying the photographs within your home, please book a time with me and I will help you with framing and display options.