Family Photo Session Guide

Location & Timing

You can choose to do the session at your home, or I am happy to provide location suggestions based on what you are looking for. I have photographed families and individuals all over St. Louis and I am familiar with several great locations – and always looking for new ones! A few of my favorite locations include Drace Park, Queeny Park, Downtown Kirkwood, Kirkwood Park, Larson Park and Forest Park.

It is recommended that outdoor sessions are booked in the morning or evening (before 10:00 AM and after 4:00 PM depending on the time of year) when the sun is lower in the sky and the light is most flattering. I typically book sessions Saturday – Sunday around 9:00 - 10:00 AM, or 5:00 – 7:00 PM.

As a mom of four children, I know how hard it is to get out the door on time. Plan to arrive on time and ready to start your session. Your session is scheduled according to the light so please plan for traffic etc.

What to Wear

• Start with a palette of 3-4 colors. Think in terms of tones: blues, earth tones, neutrals, pastels, etc. Everyone in the family can express their own sense of style within the chosen color palette. (Mixing up the colors is much more interesting photographically than everyone in the same color!)

• Stick to more solid colors than busy patterns.

• Clothing styles should be as timeless as possible.

• Also consider comfort – if you are comfortable in your clothing then you will appear comfortable in your photographs.

• If it’s a trend you may dislike in a few years, avoid the trend.

• Layers work very well, as well as accessories such as scarves, necklaces, and hats.

• Adding texture provides visual interest, but definitely avoid heavy textures or patterns that may appear bulky.

Children

One thing you will never hear me say to your child is “say cheese” or “look at the camera”.  I never force a child to sit still and smile at the camera. Every child is different, so I try to follow their lead and go with the flow. Some children take time to warm up and some are ready to go! I have a few tricks to help them relax and play; during this time I will also capture the natural candid moments. This session is a time to relax and just be with your family. The chaos often brings emotion and movement to your images. I will guide you and your family in casual poses, but it is also ok for you to just be natural with your spouse and children. Being yourselves is what will create the images you love!

After the Session

Once your session is complete, I will post a sneak peek on Facebook and Instagram, usually the following day. You are welcome to share this post with family and friends! The proofs from your session will be uploaded to a password protected web gallery for viewing and ordering within 7-14 days following your session. I am also available for in person ordering consultations. I highly recommend printing your images through me, or a high quality printer such as MPIX. I can not guarantee color/quality at places like Walgreens, etc.