Are you ready to start planning your next greater Joplin family photo session? This guide will give you 5 tips to give you a a memorable and fun experience, all while saving that moment in time. All photos by greater Joplin family and senior photographer April Hurst Photography.
Tip 1: Choose a Location your Family will Enjoy
Location is key for your family photo session. You want to choose a location that reflects your family and gives a certain vibe. At the same time, you want your location to be enjoyable, or dare I say fun for your kids and the entire family. Some of my favorites include a nature center with lots of walking trails. This setting provides so much variety for your portrait session, and it also allows the kids to explore and get the wiggles out during your session. There are lots of options for beautiful Joplin photo locations. Lately, one of my favorites is Wildcat Glades. They have pretty gardens and trails and wide open fields too. There's lots of space to walk and explore and the kids love it.
Tip 2: Plan Something Fun for Your Session
If you want your kids to love family photos, then make them fun. This family nailed it. We had a great time at their very own in home session, and their sweet mama planned a finale they'll always remember. We piled in the back of their truck and went on a little drive through their property. Mom had hot cocoa for the kids to enjoy. It created a special memory for them and gave her some fun photos that capture their little personalities. The moral of the story, be intentional in planning fun for your family photos. It will translate in their smiles.
Tip 3: Let the Kids Play
This one is easy, let the kids be kids. If you'll let them play a little, they'll have fun. Fun means great smiles, and great smiles means Mom is happy. We can definitely get posed photos of your family looking at camera, but equally as beautiful is your family laughing, tickling, and playing together. So let them play and explore a bit. We'll get some great candid shots that way, and then the kids will be ready to smile for those posed photos.
Tip 4: Include Your Family in Choosing Poses
I'll definitely help your family pose for pictures and figure out what to do with your hands, but one of the best ways to get genuine photos of your family and teens is to let them choose a few poses. Believe me when I say, the best laughs come when the kids start showing off a little. Even some of the most photo resistant family members will cave when I ask them to help with posing.
Tip 5: Bring the Treats
Let's be honest, there's no need to be above bribes on family photo day. For your littles who are old enough for a small treat, Smarties are a great option. They're not sticky and they don't leave a stain or color on clothing during your photo shoot. I've seen families carry Smarties in their pocket (also small and easy to hide). You can use this treat during the shoot itself to incentivize those smiles. Also a big win is ice cream after family photos. I smile for ice cream too!
I hope these quick tips help you in planning a successful family photo session. Remember, I'm here every step of the way to answer your questions, help with wardrobe or location. With a little planning, you can have a family photo session the entire crew will love.
Always Grateful,
April
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