If you’re a parent who is a little anxious about how your family will react to the whole “picture” thing, you’re not alone. I have received emails from clients who are worried their children won’t behave or their spouse won’t be into it and I have great news for you… you all are more photogenic than you think! I am constantly surprising couples and families by discovering their hidden modeling skills and my most common response from their spouses “That wasn’t as bad as I thought! It was actually fun.” Boom! Mission accomplished! When your husband or teenage boy says that taking pictures was FUN, I have done my job well. Your portrait session is supposed to be fun and relaxed, not forced or awkward. As you prepare for your shoot, there are a few things you can do to help your family know what to expect.

First of all, I highly recommend sitting down with your family and showing them a few of the portrait sessions I have photographed. Spend some time with your spouse, significant other, and even your children scrolling through a few blog posts, this will allow them to gauge what their expectations should be.

If you are preparing for a family session, please allow time for your young children to get their naps in and have a good meal before your planned start time. Bringing a few packs of fruit snacks, a small, non-messy snack, and some water is also a good idea. Because we're taking pictures, saving the chocolate and Cheetos for home would be best.

I also recommend allowing plenty of time to get to your shoot! There is nothing worse than when a family shows up late, and they have been arguing in the car! That is definitely going to put you all in a bad mood! 

Last but not least, remember to have patience and don’t assume everyone will not have a good time… I think you’ll be surprised how much you all will enjoy your session with me!