Thursday, August 15, 2013

Planning for Fall Family Photos | Lincoln Nebraska Photographer

Fall Portrait Guide

Planning the perfect family session doesn't have to be stressful, Here are a few hints to making your session perfect!


MAKE THE SESSION ABOUT YOU:  If you have amazing Ideas - let me hear them!  If you don't, we will chat about your families interests, your personalities, your likes, your dislikes.  We mix and match until we find exactly what works for you, and have this all planned before the day of your session.  On session day, we are then able to relax and have fun, letting true happiness (vs. forced smiles!) show in your portraits.

MAKE THE TIME COUNT:  Especially with little ones, the time slot you chose should be a time that everyone is happy.  If you know your little mr. or ms. will need a nap - allow an hour before or an hour after normal nap time.  This can help insure we will find a time that they are interactive and playful.  I also suggest avoiding the late morning/early afternoon time period.  The sun is harsh,  there are bright spots and heavy shadows, and the dreaded squinty eyes are inevitable during these hours (unless there are areas of open shade).  I try to plan the majority of my sessions for early morning, or late afternoon.  At these times, you get warm, golden light that makes everyone look beautiful.  Plan for a minimum of one hour to photograph your family.  Of course, this will vary by family size and cooperation.  I stay until I know I have (more than) enough images to wow you with.

MAKE YOURSELF COMFORTABLE:  Whatever you choose to wear, make sure you are comfortable and feel beautiful.  When you feel great, your bound to have fabulous pictures!  I suggest darker, richer colors.  Greens, Maroon and Navy always look beautiful with orange leaves and golden light.  Boots, Sweaters and Scarves all add layers and pops of color, adding interest to your photos.  I always suggest coordinating outfits through the family, but not matching exactly.  Need a few ideas?  Here’s a link to my Pinterest Board for outfit inspiration!

LASTLY - MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT EARLY : Fall portraits always fill fast. :)