4 Steps to a Successful Family Reunion Photo Shoot
It's not easy to get the whole family together, and when you do, you want to get as many images of everyone together as possible. Planning a professional photo shoot at a family reunion can make it easier for you to get everyone in front of the camera at the same time. But even though you may have everyone together, how can you ensure that your images come out looking stunning? Here are some suggestions to ensure your final images “WOW” the entire family.
Coordinating outfits:
Unless you have shirts specially designed for everyone, do your best to coordinate outfits that complement each other and help the group look unified. One of the best ways to do this is to choose a color palette. This way, everyone can select their outfit while still looking cohesive. Choose two or three colors that go well together and a neutral color for pants or skirts like denim, black, white, or khaki.
Themes/ideas:
Aside from coordinating the colors in your outfits, you may choose a theme. Beach themes, holiday themes, sports themes—the possibilities are endless. Choosing a theme can make the shoot more fun for everyone, too.
Location:
Finding the perfect location for your reunion shoot can be a bit of a challenge. If you have a large family you want to choose a location that will be able to accommodate everyone. Planning an outdoor shoot can be the best option since it can allow for the most room. For the best outdoor lighting you’ll want to plan to take your photos in an area with full shade so that you don’t have dappled lighting on people’s faces. Your professional photographer can help you select a suitable location and suggest the best time to take outdoor photos.
Shots list:
Big family shoots can get confusing and chaotic pretty quickly. Having a list of all the families will make things much smoother. Consider planning for each family to have individual shots and then a large group shot of everyone together. It may be beneficial if you appoint one person from the family who knows everyone’s names so they can assist your photographer and ensure everyone is in front of the camera at their scheduled time.
How to Decide What to Wear to Your Photoshoot
Top tips for getting the most out of your professional photography session.
If you are prepping for your first photo shoot, you probably have a couple of questions about what to expect. A common concern for people having their photos taken for the first time is what to wear.
Top tips for getting the most out of your professional photography session.
If you are prepping for your first photo shoot, you may have questions about what to expect. A common concern for people having their photos taken for the first time is what to wear.
7 Top Tips for Deciding What to Wear for a Photoshoot
1. What is the purpose of the photo shoot? This should be your first thought when deciding what to wear. Choose an appropriate outfit for the occasion and something that suits your personality.
2. Keep the location & season in mind. Where is the photo shoot taking place? Choose an outfit that will keep you feeling comfortable and confident. For example, if you’re on a beach, those new high heels might not be the most logical choice, and you might look a bit out of place.
3. Mix and match. Don’t be afraid to wear patterns or prints for your photo shoot but keep them to a minimum and try to pair them with solid colors. If you’re having a family photo shoot, have two family members in printed items and two in solid colors. Play with different colors to match the mood and setting of the shoot.
4. Make your photos timeless. You might love that trendy top or pair of pants now, but will your photos stand the test of time if you wear that item of clothing?
5. What to do about makeup. This would depend on the type of photos you are taking. Fashion shoots will call for more dramatic makeup, but for your everyday maternity, family, or portrait shoots, keep your makeup natural and minimal.
6. Fit is more important than you think. If you already have an outfit in mind for your shoot, try it on before the time to ensure it fits correctly and compliments your body type.
7. Try not to go brand crazy. Wearing too much clothing with prominent brand names makes you look like a walking ad. Clothing with large graphics also doesn’t work well, as it will be the focus of your photos.
Remember to have fun on your photo shoot, be yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask your photographer for guidance.
Lifestyle Photography Sessions Explained
A lifestyle photography session documents real-life milestones, moments, and events and gives you images that are anything but posed. Lifestyle photography photos tell your story just as it is at that precise moment and are perfect for any genre of photography. Action-driven details bring your images to life over and over again.
“I don’t want my photos to look posed”, is a phrase we hear all the time. Enter lifestyle photography.
A lifestyle photography session documents real-life milestones, moments, and events and gives you images that are anything but posed. Lifestyle photography photos tell your story just as it is at that precise moment and are perfect for any genre of photography. Action-driven details bring your images to life over and over again.
So what are some of the situations where lifestyle photography can be used?
Kids Photography
Lifestyle photography is the ideal way to capture the beauty and authenticity of childhood. Make sure your children are well-rested and that they’re comfortable in both their clothing and their surroundings. Patience is key during this type of session, but this is when the magic happens. Bringing along a favorite snack, toy, or book won’t hurt, either.
Believe it or not, the most successful photos often happen when we let the kids lead the session. It’s all about making it a magical and spirited time where there is lots to take in. Sitting back and capturing those honest moments will ensure beautiful images that you’ll love for decades.
Newborn Photography
Lifestyle photography naturally lends itself to newborn photo sessions. True to life, crib and bassinet shots taken through the slats make for stunning photos. Then there are of course, the shots with mom, dad, brothers, sisters, and even the family pet. Moments that may seem mundane now, such as bathing, feeding or even changing a diaper, from a distance of course, make for creative shots that you’ll love for years to come. Playing with and rocking your baby are also moments that you definitely won’t regret taking the time to capture as it gives you fond memories to look back on in the months to come as your baby grows and their routine changes.
Family Photography
There is nothing quite like having the family together. The laughing, games, meals, and memories are truly something to treasure. A lifestyle photography session is the perfect excuse to get your family together and capture different generations spending quality time with each other. Why not shoot a family lunch or time spent playing outside in the garden? Capturing moments between siblings or grandparents and grandchildren are photos you can treasure for years to come.
Why Your Photographer Loves Her Job
If you have ever wondered what spurs a photographer’s passion, you are about to find out. Below are just some of the many reasons your photographer wouldn’t change their job for anything in the world.
If you have ever wondered what spurs a photographer’s passion, you are about to find out. Below are just some of the many reasons your photographer wouldn’t change their job for anything in the world.
Photography changes how you see things
You notice colors, textures, flowers, trees, people, shapes, and light in a way most people never see them.
You pay more attention to the beauty around you.
Even the most mundane object can become beautiful when you photograph it in a creative way. Many photographers love their job because they develop a fascination with the world around them by viewing it through new eyes.
It’s an amazing creative outlet.
You get the chance to put a little bit of who you are into each photo that you take. Anyone can click a camera's buttons but not everyone can truly make a photo come to life.
It’s a challenge.
Creating amazing photos that capture the magic of everyday life doesn’t come without hard work, dedication and imagination. There is always something new to explore and a new way to take the same photos. It’s a job that never gets boring.
You get to meet new people all the time.
A photographer works with people from all walks of life. Getting to know someone new is a part of the process of bringing someone’s personality through in a photo. It also makes the job a lot more fun!
The flexibility is great.
Being a full-time photographer means you get to work your own hours. This doesn’t mean it’s a laid-back profession though. A photographer is always aiming to perfect their craft, taking on new challenges and helping their clients achieve the perfect pictures.
Family photos make your house feel more like a home. They add a loving touch to any room and can bring make a flood of warm and happy memories. While you can go the traditional route of simply placing your photos in a frame and displaying them on the mantle or shelf you might be looking for a more creative way to show off your professional images. Whether they are pictures from your wedding day or images of your family as it has grown over the years consider these creative ways to showcase the people you love.