How do you feel at the thought of getting into your family photos? Hesitant? As a family photographer based in Surrey, this is one of the worries I hear most often.The first thing I would say is you are definitely not alone. Yes, there are some lucky women who love the camera but I’m certainly not one of them! I would say around 90% of the women I photograph panic a little at the thought of having their picture taken. Can you tell from the images in my galleries? I’m guessing not. Here are a few bits of advice to help.
Preparation is key! Firstly, choose a photographer that you feel comfortable with. Speak to them beforehand if you can. You’ll get an idea straight away if they’re the right person for you. Think about the style of photography they offer. Are you looking for posed images with everyone looking at the camera? Or more relaxed images showing connection with each other? Choosing the style of photography that suits you and your family will really help.
During your session, focus on having fun with your children. Hug them, kiss them, laugh with them. It’ll make for beautiful images but it’ll also mean you’re too busy to think about feeling awkward. I start every session with my family walking. Just walking. I give them one rule. They are not allowed to look at me! It relaxes everyone and the movement helps to get rid of the feelings of awkwardness. We play lots of games, keeping the focus on making it fun for the children. At the end of a session, parents so often say to me ‘I actually really enjoyed that!’ It’s the best compliment and the surprise in their voice makes me smile every time!
My 6 top tips
- Choose a photographer whose style fits your way of thinking.
- Chat to them. Do they make you feel at ease?
- Decide on your outfits ahead of time. Iron them and set them out the night before.
- Do whatever you need to do to give yourself time to get ready before your session!
- Running 5 minutes late? Don’t worry. Apart from for mini sessions (when time is a bit tight) I’d always rather my families arrived a couple of minutes late but relaxed rather than on time and not speaking to each other!! (Although I’ve made that work too!)
- Take a few deep breaths, focus on your children and most of all, have fun!
Remember, your children love you exactly as you are. Those ‘flaws’ you see when you look in the mirror? They don’t see them at all. They see the face that laughs with them. They see the body that cuddles them. They see their mum. If you’d like to chat about a family photography session in Surrey or the surrounding areas, fill out the Contact Me form on my website. I’d love to hear from you!
Helen x
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