5 Tips To Prepare Your Family For Your Next Photo Session
Is your next family photo session approaching and stressing you out about all the things you have to do and everything that can go wrong?
Take a breath!
Ok, now that we're breathing again - here are 5 tips to help prepare you and your family for the day of your session.
If you try all these things and it feels like everything is still falling apart - just keep breathing! It will, eventually, be ok. We will get through it together.
And remember, some of the best memories and moments we look back on that make us smile and our hearts tear to pieces, are the days we thought were the worst and everything was going wrong.
Get a Good Night's Sleep
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for feeling energized and ready for the day ahead. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep the night before your session. This will help you look and feel your best during the shoot.
This also applies to the kids and your partner. If you all make a point to get to bed a little early, it will help everyone.
Not only does this help you look and feel your best. You will be well rested, able to wake up feeling refreshed and energized. You'll also be more likely to not put off getting out of bed, and get a jump on the day.
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BONUS TIP:
If you have younger ones that still need a nap - try to plan around that nap. Making sure your littles stay on schedule as much as possible will also greatly improve your day. Have them nap as close to the session as possible, but not in the car if you can help it. They can nap an hour or two before you have to leave and while you and your partner are getting ready. Wake them, feed them, dress them, and go!
Eat a Healthy Meal
Eating a healthy meal before your session is important to keep you feeling full and energized. Avoid eating foods that can cause bloating or make you feel sluggish, such as greasy or processed foods. Opt for a balanced meal that includes protein, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables.
Pro Tip:
Pack a couple snack for the littles! Sometimes they refuse to eat breakfast and then are staaaaarving 15 minutes later. Bring something easy to eat like a banana or apple slices, or grapes! Even a little treat for afterwards works well to give them something to look forward to.
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Pack Your Essentials
Make sure you have all the essentials packed for your session. This includes any clothing changes, accessories, makeup, or hair products that you'll need. Double-check that you have everything packed the night before, so you're not scrambling to find things on the day of the session.
This is also a great time to get some easy snacks ready to go!
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at your session location about 10-15 minutes early. This will give you time to get settled and prepare for the session. This will give you time to make any last minute outfit changes, a quick diaper change if needed, maybe a few bites of a snack and some water - because we all know what happens when you dress your baby in their best outfit and put them in the car.
It's also important to be on time, as the photographer may have other sessions scheduled after yours.
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Let Go and Have FUN!
The most important thing to remember on the day of the session is to relax and have fun. Trust your photographer to guide you through the session, and don't be afraid to be yourself. Laugh, play, and enjoy the experience. The best photos come from natural, candid moments.
Sometimes things don't go as planned, and that's okay. The weather may not cooperate, or your child may not be in the mood for photos. Remember that the photographer is there to capture beautiful memories, and sometimes the best photos come from unexpected moments.
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