Planning your family photos in Columbus, Ohio, can be stressful, especially with little ones with nap schedules or even bigger kids with sports schedules. It's a lot! As a family photographer in Columbus, I understand how overwhelming family photos can be. But as a mom and experienced photographer, I have a few tips to improve your experience and your little ones. The biggest thing to remember is it's only for a short time, and the photos are always worth it!
Ensure They're Comfortable in Clothing For Family Photos Columbus, Ohio
There's nothing worse than being in a new environment with someone you may not know and wearing something that makes you feel uncomfortable, itchy, and on edge. The same feelings can occur with your kiddos. I understand how vital their outfits can be and ensure they look just how you'd imagined they would in pictures or even like the Pinterest inspiration. However, if your kids aren't comfortable in their outfits, they may act out or start taking off the clothing they don't like. Instead, consider including your children in the outfit planning! Not only will this make them feel important, but if they've helped choose their outfit, they may be more inclined to wear it properly.
Fed and Full
I'm convinced that most meltdowns and problems can be solved with a snack. The same is true for your family photos in Columbus, Ohio. Before you arrive at your photo session, make sure your kiddos are full and happy, so they'll be on their best behavior for pictures. Bring their favorite snacks or treats as a quick reward for good behavior! It's a simple and easy way to get kiddos excited about the pictures and a little happier about the situation.
Prepare Them By Talking to Them About What to Expect
Whenever something new comes up, I want to know everything about it. Maybe we're trying a new restaurant, so I peek at the menu or a new photo spot. The same can be said for your kids, especially if this is their first experience with photography! Tell them what this experience entails, what they can expect, and how you'd like them to behave. Explain the importance of family photos and how you can't wait to see their beautiful smiles and them being themselves!
Let Them Be Kids
This can often be hard for parents; we can sometimes go into family photos with unrealistic expectations of our kids. It's challenging to be good all the time, to smile, to listen, and to wear fancy clothes. That's the beauty of family photos in Columbus, Ohio; the goal is to capture them as they are. Throughout the pictures, we'll get a few posed family photos for holiday cards, hanging in your home, and sharing with family. But these photos will also be candid, allowing your children to be kids. Years from now, when you're looking through pictures, I guarantee the ones that bring a smile to your face will be the ones with your kids being silly, interacting with each other, and having fun!
Have Fun During Family Photos in Columbus, Ohio
Lastly, try to enjoy the process. Allow yourself to have fun and be in the moment with your children. They grow up so fast, and these memories will fade. But the smiles and pictures captured will always be a shining moment to reflect on. Don't let yourself feel pressured to have the perfect kids on their best behavior with the fanciest outfits. Let them have fun and be kids!
Throughout my time as a photographer capturing young families, I can assure you they always turn out incredible and worth all the effort! You'll be so glad you did it.
Are you looking for more inspiration for family photos? Check out the spring family photo outfits guide here.
Are you considering a family photography session? Reach out today!