Prepare Your Kids for Family Photos
Are you taking family photos on the beach? If you are I am so excited for you! Beach photo sessions are amazing, but I often get asked tons of questions. Parents are often worried about their kids getting wet, how to prepare, and what to wear.
A family session can be stressful. I want you to have the best experience you can with your family so I made a list of things to prepare you for your beach family photoshoot.
Here is a list with 8 items on it. I hope it can help you prepare Your Kids for Family Photos!
SET-UP EXPECTATIONS:
Before your session, pack a bag with water and your kids’ favorite snacks. It is a long session! 45-60 mins! If they’re too young to follow directions, bring any objects that you think might help me get their attention (like small toys or stuffed animals).
Inform them how long it will be, what is expect, and if they follow what is expect what they get. Like dinner at their favorite pizza place or an ice cream cone!
FULL BELLY:
Make sure everyone’s belly is full and they’ve had some good rest before the session! After you do your best to prepare them, give yourself (and them) some grace! If they’re “in a mood” or aren’t cooperating perfectly for some reason, rest assured that we’re not judging you (or them).
I’ve seen it all and know how to get great photos no matter what!
STAY CALM:
When you’re preparing for a photo session, you tend to get a bit more stressed or high energy than usual. Your child can feel that energy and may not nap that day when you REALLY want them to. So do what you have to do to keep yourself calm.
Don’t rush putting your toddler or baby down for their nap. Take your time, give them a bath, sing them a song, read them a story, whatever will help them to feel sleepy and calm.
SLEEP:
Move bedtime later or push naps later than usual. If your child usually goes to sleep earlier than sunset, you could try moving their bedtime later gradually throughout the week before your session. Then gradually move it back afterward. Along the same lines, you can try to keep your child awake a bit longer than normal on your photo session day in hopes that they will be happier later in the evening.
DRESS ACCORDINGLY:
Dress for the weather to ensure your kids are comfortable. When it’s hot out, lather your kids in sunscreen and show some skin. If the weather will be chilly, make sure that your child is covered up. Especially with babies and toddlers, their pants can ride up and not cover their legs so put thin leggings or extra tall socks under if they’re wearing pants. This happens more times than I can count! Cold little kid legs aren’t fun! Bring a hat for them if it will be super cold or windy to keep their ears warm. Plan layers.
BACKUP PLAN:
You can do everything you can to make sure your little kids are happy and awake until sunset, but sometimes you need a backup item! Bring a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or blanket but don’t let your child know about it or see it. Then if the time comes that you’ve tried everything and they still aren’t happy, you can give it to them. Usually, this item is not even needed, but it’s good to have just in case.
HAVE FUN:
Have fun and let your personality show. Bring good energy and positivity to the session. Don’t be afraid to let your kids get wet. Part of the fun of doing a beach family shoot is enjoying and interacting with the water. Just have a good time and bring clothes to change after the session for kids.
TIMING:
Take your photos during the golden hour. I normally take one hour before sunset because the light is better. And Clearwater beach sunset is the most beautiful sunset in Florida!
Thank you so much for reading my blog post.
I hope this gives you a good idea of how to help your family prepare your kids for family photos! Can’t wait to see you!
If you are interested in booking a Family Holiday Photo session with Jommy Photography, and would like more information, please CLICK HERE to see the experience.For investment information, please click HERE.
