Preparing your children and yourself for a photo shoot can help ensure that the experience is enjoyable and the results are fantastic. Here's our guide to help you with the preparation process:
Preparing Your Children:
1. Explain the Process: Depending on the age of your children, explain what a photo shoot is and why you're doing it. Make it sound like a fun and exciting activity that they will enjoy. 2. Choose Comfortable Clothing: Select outfits that your children feel comfortable and confident in. Avoid clothes that are too tight, itchy, or that they generally dislike. 3. Coordinate Outfits: If you're taking family or sibling photos, consider coordinating outfits to create a visually pleasing aesthetic. This doesn't mean everyone has to match perfectly, but colours and styles can complement each other. 4. Rest and Snacks: Ensure your children are well-rested and have had a snack before the photo shoot. Hungry or tired kids can become fussy and less cooperative. 5. Bring Snacks and Water: Have some light snacks and water on hand to keep their energy levels up during breaks. 6. Pack Props: If you have specific props you'd like to include in the photos (toys, blankets, etc.), bring them along. These can help make the shoot more personal and meaningful. 7. Practice Poses: Depending on the age of your children, practice some simple poses or expressions at home. This can help them feel more comfortable in front of the camera. 8. Timing: Consider scheduling the shoot during a time when your children are generally at their best – not too close to nap time or bedtime. 9. Bring Distractions: Depending on your children's age, bring along toys or activities to keep them engaged during breaks or downtime.
Preparing Yourself:
1. Choose Your Outfit: Just like your children, choose an outfit that you feel comfortable and confident in. Consider coordinating with the overall colour scheme if you're doing family photos. 2. Relax and Be Positive: Children can pick up on your emotions. Stay positive, relaxed, and enthusiastic about the photo shoot. This will help create a pleasant atmosphere. 3. Plan Ahead: Organize everything you need the night before – outfits, props, snacks, etc. This will reduce stress on the day of the shoot. 4. Practice Poses: Just like you practiced with your children, think about some poses or expressions you'd like to try during the shoot. 5. Communicate with the Photographer: If you have specific ideas or preferences, communicate them with the photographer before the shoot so they can plan accordingly. 6. Be Patient: Photo shoots can take time, especially when working with children. Be patient and flexible if things don't go exactly as planned. 7. Enjoy the Moment: Remember, photo shoots are also about capturing genuine moments and emotions. Enjoy the time spent with your children and the opportunity to create lasting memories. 8. Interact with Your Children: Engage with your children during the shoot. Play, laugh, and interact naturally. Candid moments often make for beautiful photos.
By preparing your children and yourself, you're setting the stage for a successful and enjoyable photo shoot experience.