With Christmas and Chinese New Year around the corner, family photo shoots are a wonderful way to capture memories that will last a lifetime. But they can also bring on challenges, especially when working with kids, elderly family members, and coordinating relatives. Here are some useful tips to overcome the potential hurdles and ensure a smooth, enjoyable family photo shoot session.
Preparing for the Shoot
It is important to discuss expectations and logistics with the family well in advance. This is so that everyone is aware of the final outcome and there are no surprises on the day of the shoot. Encourage them to plan outfits, consider location preferences, and think about any specific groupings or shots they’d like to capture. Make sure you communicate your preferences to the photographer before the photo session – a practice we highly encourage at Stories!
Bring Essentials
Remind family members to bring snacks, water, and anything that can make the shoot more comfortable for kids and seniors. Small toys or comfort items can help children, while a folding chair may be beneficial for older family members, especially if they have to stand long. You might also consider bringing small hand fans or umbrellas if you are shooting outdoors, as this can help to ensure everyone is more comfortable despite hot weather to keep grumpiness at bay.
Engaging Kids
Young children are often the biggest challenge in family photo shoots. They might be impatient, fussy, or simply not interested in following directions. However, with a little creativity and flexibility, you can capture beautiful photos without forcing kids into unnatural poses or expressions. Parents should encourage their kids and work together with the photographer to get the best outcomes. Remember that the photographer’s job is to take the photo, and not to entertain the kids. Specific tips for kids include:
- Make it Fun: Bring small toys, bubbles, or other playful items to capture their interest. These items can be both a distraction and a prop for spontaneous shots.
- Be Flexible with Posing: Avoid expecting young kids to stay still or smile on command. Instead, allow them to interact naturally with their surroundings and family members.
- Breaks and Snacks: Children, especially toddlers, might need breaks and snacks. Schedule breaks during the shoot to avoid meltdowns and pack their favorite yummy snacks.
- Involve the Parents: Sometimes, kids respond better when parents are actively involved. Have parents play, laugh, tickle, throw them up in the air or sing songs with them to capture more candid shots.
- Make the Photo Session A Game: Turn everything into a game, like pretending to see who can freeze and smile the biggest or who can laugh the longest.
Handling Older Adults
Older family members might have limited mobility or health considerations. It’s essential to keep them comfortable while ensuring they’re a part of the memorable moments. Some specific tips when including older senior family members can be:
- Choose Accessible Locations: Select a location that’s easy to navigate, with minimal walking and few obstacles. If stairs or uneven ground are unavoidable, bring walking aids and portable seating options.
- Keep Sessions Short: Avoid lengthy sessions that could tire them out. If the family shoot is extensive, prioritise shots involving seniors early on, allowing them to rest afterward. Building some breaks in can also be helpful for them.
- Incorporate Chairs or Props: Use chairs, benches, or even walkers for comfortable and relaxed poses. This also helps elderly family members feel included without having to stand for prolonged periods.
Managing Tricky Family Dynamics
Family dynamics can sometimes be complex, and these dynamics can manifest in subtle ways during a photoshoot. It’s crucial to remain sensitive, respectful, and diplomatic, especially if there are any known conflicts or strained relationships within the group. If you know in advance that certain family members may not want to be in close contact, plan the shots accordingly. Ensure everyone feels comfortable without making it apparent to others.
Encourage Group Bonding
Use poses and prompts that encourage family members to interact naturally. Sometimes, playful prompts, like a group hug or telling each other funny stories or even family jokes, can help ease tensions.
Family photoshoots can come with unexpected challenges, but with preparation and patience, you can turn each one into a memorable experience. At Stories, we pride ourselves on capturing family moments, from small families of 3 to even large family portraits of 40 family members! Remember, each generation and family brings something unique to the table. What a better way to capture it all than in an unforgettable photo that can be passed down from generation to generation. For more information on our family shoots, reach out to us.
Plan Around Their Schedule
Don’t Resort to Devices
By taking the time to incorporate these simple tips, you can help ensure that your little ones will be prepared for a positive photography experience. Just remember to set realistic expectations for yourself and your children. Understand that not every moment will be perfect, and that’s part of the charm. Embrace the imperfections and remember that the goal is to capture genuine moments and emotions, and leave the rest up to your skilled photographer. 
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