Here are some tips to make sure your family portrait session is enjoyable and produces wonderful photographs that you will treasure forever:

1. Clothing: Keep clothing simple. No stripes, patterns or logos. Lighter is better than darker. Everyone does not have to be identical; have the clothing similar in tonality. Make sure that girls can sit comfortably as well as stand (so stay away from the tight skirts and short dresses). Babies need bloomers and plain underwear for white dresses. Boys in collared shirts are a nice look. Make sure the clothing fits your child properly (i.e. sleeves not too long, pants not too long).

2. Hair: For those with long hair, please bring hair ties, clips, ribbons, gel or hair spray in case it’s windy. For adults or children in need of a haircut, have the appointment a week before the session.

3. Colors: If you have a favorite outfit that is bright and colorful, pack that as well. It’s better to have too many clothes to choose from than too few.

4. Snacks: Bring drinks and easy to eat non-staining snacks like Cheerios, Teddy Grahams, pretzels, crackers, cheese, or carrot and celery sticks. It’s not a good idea to bring candy to the session. We need the children to focus and stay relatively calm.

5. Don’t Say Cheese! Please think about songs and stories that will make your children relax and laugh. (It’s better to have your mouth moving than theirs!). Please do not practice “Cheese” or “Smile” – it’s best if they are encouraged to play, use their imaginations, and have a good time. With young children, it’s important that parents are ready with silly things that you know will make them laugh. Be prepared to act ridiculous if called upon (all for the sake of fine photography). We promise not to tell your friends that you danced on the beach or jumped up and down or made funny noises. We want you to have fun too. (Don’t worry, if you can’t be ridiculous, we can.)

6. Be Rested: If possible let the kids have a quiet afternoon before the session. I know this sounds like the doctor who says “keep your child in bed for 24 hours.” Just do your best. We need them rested. They will be very active during the session.

Good preparation helps to ensure a successful family portrait session.