Why even get professional photos taken? | North County San Diego Photographer
Most people only feel that having pictures taken should happen when their children are little. Because they grow so fast, and change so much, having family pictures taken feels like a must. As parents, we just don’t want to forget anything. But as kids become teens and even young adults, yearly family photos don’t get prioritized.
I have a pre-teen, teen, and young adult. My husband and I have wrinkles, receding hairlines, and a rounder middle. All of these things can be deterrents against that annual family photo session.
THEY SHOULDN’T BE!
Celebrating family at all phases is so important. I want my children to know how much I loved them at 16 not just 6 years old. That aging isn’t something to do from the shadows but out in the open, proudly. Hiring a photographer to honor your family, as they are, right now in the present, whatever that looks like, should be important!
Having just had my own family pictures taken, I wanted to share with you some tips for having the best possible experience.
Decided on the have-to haves/goals for your session: My have-tos were I wanted photos taken in my home and the river, they had to be on film, and I needed someone who had worked with varying age groups. Once your needs are established start looking for a photographer, not the other way around. Don’t pick a photographer and hope they can do what you are looking for. Most photographers have niched down their art, so find someone who already does what you need, and does it well!
Let your children pick their own outfits: This sounds crazy to most moms, but I pinky promise it is an easy thing to do. The matchy-matchy look is very out so varying colors and patterns are absolutely okay. If you are worried your kid will pick a Spiderman costume to wear, try laying out 3-5 outfit choices for your kiddo to pick from. Maybe even take them shopping. You pick the color, but they pick the actual garment.
Pick a location that works best for your family’s needs: Yes, Sandia Peak is stunning for photos, but if you have a toddler who hates being in their car seat or loves to run, that location will be a disaster. Little kids know the boundaries of their home, have snacks available, and can use the potty if there is an emergency.
Don’t let price be your deciding factor for who you hire: The saying, “You get what you pay for” applies to family photographers. What photographers charge varies greatly (it’s actually a massive pain point in the business, but I won’t get into that). If you find a photographer who meets all your needs, you are in love with their work, and you connect with them personally but they are out of your price range, save up! Make payments! Cut something else out of your budget for a while, if possible! Family photos aren’t just a brag post orChristmas card anymore. This is an art form. Photos are the only thing that is guaranteed to go up in value (emotional value) over time. So get what you want or you’ll regret it later.
Don’t Stress Out, Like At All: Your family doesn’t want to be around you if you are grumpy and short-tempered at any time, let alone family pictures. Don’t make comments about stressing out over outfits, how stressful it is to have pictures taken, or talk to your friends about how your kids never behave. Children pick up on so much more than you know. I know that a session is going to be really unfun when I hear a parent yelling at their kids as they are getting out of the car for their photo session. If you are calm and upbeat, your family will be much more likely to be open to family pictures.
I have more tips I could share, but I’ll stop there. I hope these help you with your own family photos. If I check off all these boxes for you, book a session with me! Booking is easy peasy. It’s all done online including choosing a date that works best with your schedule. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to CONTACT ME HERE.
