Planning a family photo session can be stressful! From finding a photographer, figuring out what to wear, stressing if the photos will look good and to everything in between. With so many people, outfits and schedules to coordinate, it can be daunting. For that, I am here to share my best tips to making sure your family photo session is a success.

It All Starts With Your Vision

For most, family photos are not something you do very often. So when you do them, you want to do them right. There are lot’s of questions you should ask yourself. What type of family photo session do you want? What do you plan to do with your photos? Are you going to print them and hang them on your wall? What kind of colors do you want to see when you look at them? The list could go on and on. And yes, it can get overwhelming to think about especially when you just don’t know. This is where Pinterest comes in. Pinterest is an AMAZING resource for finding inspiration on just about anything. I suggest, create a family photo session vision board. Pin photos that contain color schemes and poses that you love. This is a great starting point to making your vision become clear. This can also be helpful for your photographer so they can get more of a visual of what you are wanting.

Create your new Pinterest board here!

Choosing The Right Photographer For You

Choosing the right photographer for YOU is more important than what most people realize.  Here is something most photographers will not tell you. You do NOT have to book with a photographer just because you talk them.  This is an investment you are making and if you’re not connecting with the person you’re talking to, it’s probably not a good fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request a phone consultation. Ask questions like; What is the booking process like? Do they offer something that can be useful in getting ready for your session (ex. styling assistance)? What should you expect during the session? What are their current turnaround times? These are just some questions to consider on your search.  Don’t be afraid to take your time choosing the right photographer.

Planning Ahead For A Successful Family Photo Session

Family photo sessions are an investment. So why would you try to schedule a last minute session with no preparation?  It’s kind of a recipe for disaster.  Now I understand things come up and opportunities arise with limited time and sometimes you have no other choice.  That is fine. It is not impossible to get amazing last minute photos.  But when you do have the time and are not in a rush, I STRONGLY recommend giving yourself at least 4 weeks to get session ready.  Coordinating schedules, choosing locations and planning wardrobes all take time. You will have these photos displayed on your walls for years to come. You deserve to give yourself the time to make it what you truly want.

Make It A Fun Family Experience!

On the day of your family photo session, try your best not to have anything else going on. The last thing you will want is to be scrambling around trying to get ready and get out the door. Trust me on this. You don’t want to show up to your session already stressed and frazzled. It will show in your photos. As for after your session, treat yourself! You look good, your family looks good, go do something fun! Reward the kids (and your hubby) for behaving so well. Give them something in return for doing something that was important to you!

Pro Tip: This also makes a great incentive for getting your stubborn kids or spouse on board for taking photos!

Making Memories Of Your Family Photo Session

A family photo session should be a fun and positive experience. If your experience has ever been bad then think about all the things i’ve talked about and see what could have been differently. Then next time, do it differently. Do your research, take your time and most importantly, have fun with the whole process. These will memories you carry with you for years to come.

Oklahoma Family & Newborn Photographer | Brittany Acklin Photography

Are you looking for a family photographer who will work with you every step of the way? One who will take as much stress off you as possible? Well I could be your girl! Let’s chat and see if we are a good fit! Contact me here!