Okay, first of all, I know that getting your photo taken can be stressful with all the planning involved. Then you add your kids into the mix and you’re ready for chaos, am I right? I’ve been there and I get it. I too hire a photographer every year to capture my own family portraits. The good news is that there are things you can do to make your experience go smoother and I’m about to tell you all my tips! This Toronto photographer knows all about how to get the best, candid and happy shots of your family that you will treasure forever.
Tip 1: Let your kids be kids
So many times parents will say to me that they were sure I got nothing good because their kids were crazy, and then when they get their gallery they have the hardest time choosing their favourites because they love them all. The thing is, all I need is a split second where your kids are doing something cute. The rest of the time they may be making fart noises and sticking their tongue out, but when they laugh because of their silly behaviour, that’s when I capture their true personality. No one expects them to be perfect! I certainly don’t and I know my kids won’t either. I want your kids to be kids – be play, explore, cry at times, capture them cuddled in your arms – the true moments of being a child going through a lot of different emotions.
Tip 2: Be Prepared
When you’re prepared for things, you feel more relaxed. I will help you with location and outfit selection, so be sure not to leave that to the last minute. And if shopping is not your thing or you just don’t have time, ask me to show you what clothing I have available to borrow from my client closet! I’ll bring everything ironed or steamed and ready to be worn, along with my pop-up changing tent.
Other things you can do to be prepared:
- Gather non-messy snacks ahead of time if you think your kids might need some. Nothing that takes too long to eat or gets stuck in the teeth. No crackers or chocolate, please. I’d suggest marshmallows, smarties, grapes, water. Be sure to hide it and only pull it out if necessary.
- Plan to leave about 20 minutes before you think you should. Get to the location at least 5-10 minutes early so you have time to feed baby, change a diaper, dress the kids, or just give your toddler a few minutes to relax after the car ride.
- Schedule some pampering for yourself! Get a manicure and pedicure the day before or schedule a hair and makeup appointment for the day of your session. If you look amazing then you will feel amazing, too! I also have a blog post about how to do your hair and makeup for photo sessions.
Tip 3: Allow Yourself to Have Fun With Your Family
The first thing you need to do is realize that I’m freaking amazing and I will make sure your photos turn out beautiful. So once the session starts, that is when you go off duty and leave it all to me! I want you to be in the moment with your family. Cuddle them, love on them, play games with them. I will let you guys know what to do next and I’ll help guide the kids to do what will look good in the photos. And if they don’t like my ideas, that’s fine! I’ll try something else. You’re officially off duty and your photos will turn out SO MUCH BETTER if you’re just enjoying your family and not stressing about their behaviour. This is the single most important thing you can do if you want beautiful photos. Just have fun and enjoy your family. If you want to learn more about how to have the best family photo day ever, check out this article.
Here are more blog posts in different locations in Toronto both outdoors and in-studio showing why you should hire a photographer to capture your beautiful family.
Family photo shoot at Scarborough Bluffs
Family and maternity photos at Scottsdale Farm
Family and cake smash photo shoot at Mint Room Studios
Family and cake smash photo shoot in The Solarium Studio
Family photos at The Evergreen Brickworks
HOW TO BOOK
There are a few ways you can book. You can book right online using this tab which leads you to my online booking calendar. However, not all available dates are on that calendar so if you need a different date, send me an email! You can reach me at hello@anchorstudio.ca
Anchor Studio Photography specializes providing a full service experience that starts with booking your session and ends with getting beautiful tangible heirloom products being displayed in your home. My style of soft, candid and timeless photos can be seen in all my maternity, newborn, child and family portraits in Greater Toronto Area, including Oakville, Mississauga, North York and Richmond Hill. If you are interested in booking a portrait session for your family, you can click here to book your session. I am now booking sessions for summer 2022, so don’t hesitate to get in touch soon!
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