Family Session 101,
brought to you by yours truly.

So you booked a family session with me and now you are starting to think about all the details.
"When? Where? What if the kids go crazy and don’t listen? WHAT IF…!?”
I’ve created this guide to ease those tensions and get you excited about our session. I know in the moment right now it might seem stressful to think about the session… But instead think of yourself in 10, 15, or 20 years. How precious will these images be to you? Focus on this incredible keepsake you are about to have in your hands—precious photos of the ones you love most.

Location, Location, Location

Step 1: Choose a Location

 

Can’t decide where to have your family session? Stress no further. Ask yourselves these questions and it’s sure to bring some ideas to mind!

  • Your home? A favorite park where you often take the kids? I love when my families are able to add in this extra layer of meaning to their photos by choosing a meaningful location.

    Note: If you booked a newborn session, these 100% of the time happen at your home. It makes the most sense—it is the easiest, safest, and most comfortable place for the babe and you guys! Don’t think your home is photo worthy? All I need is one room with good natural light, and we can make some awesome photos. We could even do some outside in your backyard if the weather is nice.

  • Live in the city? Love the urban feel? Maybe choosing a spot with an urban backdrop would be a better fit. Spend a lot of time doing outdoorsy activities? Love to hike, go on trails, or prefer the beauty of nature? Choose a scenic nature location.

  • I don’t force kids to sit still for more than a couple formal family photos. I want them to be happy and smiley, and that usually happens when they can run around and be free! Choose a location that will allow them to do this.

It’s okay if you are still unsure on the location. I’m happy to help with that! I can give you ideas and even show you photo galleries from previous sessions.

What (Not) To Wear

Step 2: Choose your Outfits

You can have an epic location but an unflattering outfit. OUCH! Let’s avoid that. All of these outfit guidelines I have listed are based on what I’ve learned looks good & what doesn’t. No need to stress about your outfits any longer—I’ve got you covered. ;)

  • Aim to complement each other with your outfits instead of trying to match perfectly. Unless you are going for that cheesy 90s family photo look.. ya, you know the one I’m talking about.

  • Neutrals work very well with my editing style. You will always be safe if you stick with classic neutrals (black, white, gray).

  • You want to stand out, or -pop- from the background. For example, if you chose a nature location in the summer, avoid wearing green or brown as those two colors are going to be the most dominant in the background. Chose a city location? You have a little more flexibility. If the background is mostly neutrals, go with a bolder color or something with a slight pattern to stand out. If the location background has multiple colors, stick with neutrals.

  • I have my clients moving around a bit (walking, playing, etc) and that might be a little tricky if you show up in 5 inch heels! But hey, if you feel confident that you can do all that in stilettos, more power to ya!

    • Neutrals are always a good choice

    • Something that makes you feel confident

    • Something that makes you feel GOOD

    • Something that you can easily move around in

    • Something that LOOKS & FEELS like YOU

    • Ball caps (beanies are OK)

    • Graphic Tees

    • Anything with big logos

    • Leggings (unless paired with a skirt/dress)

    • Hoodies

    • Yoga Pants/Sweats

    • Overly busy patterns (too distracting)

    • Overly tight pieces

    • Anything that you have to constantly adjust/fix

Have some outfit ideas but still not sure what to wear? Email or text me pics of your outfits and I’m happy to help based on what would look best! I’m confident we will have you looking your best and feeling good in your outfits!

Bonus Tip: All of the images in this guide are examples of great outfit choices, so use them for inspo!

When?

Step 3: Choose what Time of Year

 

Depending on what season you pick, your photos will have a different feel to them. Here’s a few tips to help narrow down which season may be best for your family if you can’t decide.

  • Want to bring the kids outside? Choosing a warmer month may be best. Unless your kids are brave in the cold weather, then go for a snowy session!

  • Fall is one of the most popular times due to the cooler weather and beautiful foliage. It’s also popular because it’s right before the holidays, which means it is a perfect time for those Christmas card photos.

  • Winter is often the least requested, but snowy photos are so fun! I also have weekend availability for family sessions in the winter since I don’t have many weddings during that time.

    Note: During April-October, I am only able to photograph family sessions during the week due to weekend weddings.

A Few More Tips…

  • Feel free to! I’ve photographed several sessions where families brought their pet. Let me know ahead of time and plan to have a friend also come to take away the pet once we get a few pictures with them.

  • I don’t supply any props since my style is more candid and natural based. If you would like to bring a prop or two, feel free. In the past some families brought something simple like a blanket to sit on. Let me know ahead of time so I can make sure to incorporate them!

  • I typically suggest to have your session begin 1.5-2 hours before sunset. This time of day provides the most flattering and warm light. Sunrise is also another stunning alternative. If not either of these, I recommend morning time around 9AM to avoid the harsh light that starts the closer you get to noon. Sometimes the best time also depends on the location chosen and the lighting.

    Note: I understand that kids usually have a schedule to maintain sanity in your home. I totally respect this and want to work with you to choose the best time to keep everyone happy!

  • You could bake cookies in your kitchen. Or chill out in your favorite spot. These are your family photos, so do what feels like YOU guys!

  • Keep it simple. A neutral swaddling cloth is perfect. Maybe you have a special blanket? Use that! If not, choose one or two simple outfits/onesies that coordinate with your outfits. If it’s a girl, feel free to incorporate a cute bow or headband.

  • Should get photos together too! I know this can be tricky with the kids, but I always try to get at least a photo or two of you both together alone. You guys are what created this amazing and beautiful family of yours! It’s probably not very often that you get an image of just the two of you. This is something your kids will one day love to see too… a pic of their Mom+Dad together! <3

  • Create a list of all the must have photo combinations you want. This way, when I’m working with multiple families, I can make to sure to get all of the photos you want. List all the combinations you want for each individual family, and then make a list for any mixed family photos. List these by listing each person’s first name so that all I need to do is call out their name when I’m organizing each photo. This will make things easier for me and keep the photos moving efficiently so we can get them all!

One Final Note

When I think about my family’s old photos, I feel so thankful I have them. I don’t focus on if everyone looked perfect or was put together. Instead I feel grateful and love to see the personalities of everyone in the photo. Try not to stress out about the kids, how they will behave, or how things will go. Your family is so beautiful and I’ve never had a session where I didn’t get photos that the family loved and cherished. These images means so much more than we realize. These images are not only for you now, but for your future family. They will love to see any of the photos of your family. Remember that. Think about how incredible that is, and what you are giving to your future family by having these photos taken!
Basically, it’s gonna be fun and you are gonna love the images we take together!

HAVE QUESTIONS? NEED HELP PLANNING?
REACH OUT ANYTIME. I’M HERE FOR YOU.
HELLO@RACHELKUNZENPHOTOGRAPHY.COM