Don’t stress about your kids misbehaving.
I have kids, I get it. Sometimes they are angels, sometimes life happens. I’m more than happy to go with the flow and let them run the show. I might make suggestions on where to go or what to do next, but if they aren’t keen we can change it up, whatever you would do in your regular day. Otherwise negotiations, tears and tantrums are part of the everyday, so I might photograph that too!
Your mood effects your photos.
I know it’s hard, trying to get your kids, your partner, your house, your SELF ready. But once we get started it’s time to leave all that behind. This time and space is for you to connect with your family. Have fun with them, laugh with them, ask them questions, play. If you’re having fun, so are they and it will come through in your photos.
Don't forget to show affection to your partner.
Don't force it, but don't be shy because I'm there. I won't ask you to kiss or do anything cheesey, but if you might normally hold hands or put your arm around them, any kind of physical affection makes for a much nicer photo than standing 1.5m apart. Remember, you might just be in the background of photos of your kids too, so the less filthy looks you give each other the better!
Some other stuff...
I also have a questionnaire you will receive, if you can please answer as much of this as you can (any time before our session), it really helps me to create the best photos of you, that truly show you and your family as you really are.
If you have any more questions at all check my FAQ's or welcome to email, DM or call to chat!
Heidi x
HOW TO PREP
For your Outdoor Sunset Session
My Approach
My family sessions have a fun and relaxed vibe. I’ll get a few ‘everyone look at the camera’ shots, then the rest of the session will be quite casual. I’ll come prepared with a few fun things for you all to do to get you interacting with each other and having fun. If you have little kids, please don’t stress about them misbehaving or not looking at the camera, I TOTALLY understand that most kids aren’t that into photos, and I’m happy to chase them around capturing all the cute things they do when they think nobody is looking. The best photos happen when everyone is relaxed and being themselves, including parents!
How long will the shoot take?
Outdoor shoots are best done in the ‘golden hour’ before sunset. The light is more flattering then and everything feels a little more magical. Please be on time for your session, the sun doesn’t wait for anyone, so if you are late we will have less time to get the images we need. We can have a quick chat, and head to the best spot to get started. Depending on the light, and what sort of mood everyone is in, we can usually get all our shots in 45 minutes, if you’re up for a longer adventure or everyone is happy playing, I often stick around for some more candid/documentary style images at the end.
What to wear
I’ve put together a handy guide with a few things to avoid and pointers if you feel you need it - click here for more information.
What to bring
I often move around a location, so if you aren’t comfortable leaving your bag behind, best to leave it in the car (happy to chuck your keys and phone in my camera bag). But if your kid needs their water bottle and an emergency snack supply, by all means, bring a bag (a photogenic one if you have). If you are planning on bringing any food or toys as rewards/bribes (no judgement!) for good behaviour, you are most welcome, but probably best to leave it till the end of the session so they aren’t in every photo! If you’d like some shots kicking a ball, building sandcastles, or having a swim, bring toys/towels, whatever you like.