Planning Your Family Photo Session

16 June 2022 | Family

Thank you so much for booking your family photo shoot with us! We are excited to work with you. There can be a lot to think about, and it can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Let’s chat about planning your family photo session.

When it comes down to it, photography is all about light. So our first priority is to choose a location based on the the time of day you can book your session. We always suggest the evening in terms of getting beautiful, soft light. That golden light you see in so many photos happens when the sun is low and the light is soft. That happens early morning, or in the evening. We do understand small kiddos can’t always do the evening, so once we choose a time for your photos, that will determine the type of location we suggest to you.

Choosing Location

The first thing to think about the main vibe you want for your photos. Some people don’t really care, and they really just want their family captured and documented. If that’s the case, amazing! We’ll send you some suggestions based on the time of day you book.

There are two main categories for you location: urban or rural. If you love architecture in your photos, we have some suggestions for you.

Examples of Urban Locations:

Here are some examples of fun, beautiful rural locations:

When it comes to rural locations – trees, nature, greenery – that’s our jam! Sometimes people choose a spot that is really meaningful to them. If you just love greenery, we’ll help you choose! Once again, based on the time of day AND how things are looking! For example – if you’re looking for fall photos, we check constantly to see where the leaves are looking their best. Trust us!

Time of Day

The time of day you choose to have your photos will have a HUGE influence over which location will work for your photos. Of course we want happy kiddos! That is most important. But most locations look best in the evening, when the sun drops lower, and you get that beautiful, pretty light.

You can read more about that beautiful, evening light here.

Here is an example of that beautiful evening light:

If you’re looking to book in the morning, or earlier in the evening (or late afternoon), then we have to choose somewhere with shade:

If your number one goal is to capture memories with your family, tell us the general vibe you’re going for. From there, we will give you a few suggestions as we plan your session together.

I hope this helps when planning your family photo session! Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Next up, let’s chat about outfits! You can read all about choosing your outfits here.

Thanks!
Shauna & Gareth