5 Tips to Make Family Photos Stress Free

And all the mamas said Amen! ;)

We've had the sessions, believe me!  I've done/said some things I'm not proud of.  I'm not sure if it's just because the kids are getting older {less dependent on Adam and me, more flexible with dinner schedules, etc.} or if it's because I'm more experienced.  Either way, here are a few tips we use when planning your annual family photoshoot...

   

1. Schedule your session during the best time for your kids | if your kids are crying because it's in the middle of nap time, it isn't going to matter if the lighting is exactly what you liked on the Pinterest photo you saved.  Morning light is also beautiful and many kids are up early anyways.

2. Prep what you can ahead of time | don't wait until the night before to try on clothes or the morning of to paint nails -- those things can {& should} be done ahead of time. 

3. Fuel & be comfortable | Make sure everyone is fed and hydrated.  I don't know about you, but I know my kids {& I} get irritated and grouchy when we're hangry, so just take the 20 minutes before you get ready to get something in your tummy.  And for the love, do not put your family in uncomfortable clothes, they will look as uncomfortable as they feel.  Ideally you'll be able to find outfits that coordinate just enough from your closets.

4.  Plan the location ahead of time | know where you're going and look at the location {in the same light!} ahead of time.  If you want outdoor photos have  a backup plan {or date}, but I can't advocate enough for taking family photos in/around your home.  It's fun to look back and see how we decorated previously, or even past homes if you've moved.  

5. Stay calm | Easier said when you aren't in the moment, but kids {& spouses!} pick up on moods.  If you're stressed and snippy, they will be too!  Photos aren't meant to be perfect {at least I don't think so}.  That just isn't real life.  You daughter has hot pink, non coordinating nails -- she loved them!  Your son insists on keeping his temporary tattoo on -- whatever!  You didn't get your husbands hair cut last week -- it's going to be okay!  You've just captured your real life.  Someday you're going to look back and the bruise on your baby's cheek will make you smile and remember how she rode her riding toy down the stairs to the garage.  And nothing is better than a toothless grin or an awkward smile!

Bonus tips...
Mamas -- keep your expectations real.  Set them, then lower them, and then call that good.
Dudes -- If you hate photos as much as my husband, have a beer when you're getting ready and thank your wife for planning them.  Someday you'll be glad she made you do it. ;)

The point of family photos is to take an image of what you aren't.  It's to capture your real life to look back and smile on in 10, 20, 50 years.  Laugh.  Have fun.  Print the outtakes!  

Kiss your life.
Accept it, just as it is.
Today, now.
So that those
moments of happiness
you're waiting for
don't pass you by.
-Unknown

*Photocredit - Teri Swenson Photography {my sweet friend from Des Moines, IA}