Getting Your Kids Picture Ready!
It's holiday picture season! Everyone is scheduling pictures for their yearly portrait updates and holiday cards. Preparing your kids for a photo session can be a fun and exciting experience for everyone involved - but it can also be stressful. If you're hoping for a smooth-as-possible photography session and have little ones, this one's for you.
Here are some tips as you prepare for your appointment....
Talk to your kids about the photo session: Introduce the idea of the photo session to your child well in advance. Explain to them what will happen during the session and what they can expect. This will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious on the day of the session. You can "practice your picture smile" to help them feel prepared for their moment in the spotlight!
Keep “Hangry” at bay: Fill those little bellies! One of the easiest ways to prepare kids for family photos is to ensure they begin the session with a full stomach. Offer a meal or snack before you hop in the car and bring a snack/water for a mid-session break if necessary. (The "hangry" tip applies for parents, too!)
Dress them in something comfortable: It is tempting to force kids into that “oh-so darling” outfit, but it’s important to remember that they need to be comfortable. Dress them in something that they feel good in and that allows them to move around freely. If getting your kids "dressed up" feels impossible right now, opt for a matching PJ family session on our holiday bed set, or go for a casual look in front of one of our more neutral set options.
Bring a comfort item: If your child has a favorite toy or blanket, bring it along to the session. This can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed. When paired with our "Christmas Eve Night at the Window" set, it adds a little personal touch to a magical photo.
Make sure they’re well-rested: A well-rested child is a happy child. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest the night before the session so that they are well-rested and ready to go. Also... DO NOT SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION DURING WHAT SHOULD BE "NAP TIME". This rarely ends well. If your child tends to fall asleep in the car and you have a longer drive, consider arriving 15-20 minutes early. While you may have to wait in the car for another session to finish up, it will give your child a chance to wake up and get their bearings before they walk into a new/strange place and have lights flashing in their face.
Bring an activity you love to do together: Bring along an activity that you and your child enjoy doing together. This can help keep them entertained and engaged during the session. Need something to keep them distracted for a moment? Let us know! We have coloring books, crayons, toys and blocks available in the studio to help.
While taking pictures with kids (especially younger ones) can be a gamble, it does not have to be a stressful, anxiety-inducing experience. With a few tips, tricks, and a sense of humor - your family's 2023 holiday photography session can be a fun and light-hearted experience for everyone!
