The Difference:
I would say that a picture is what you snap for yourself, nowadays usually on an iPhone. But a portrait is a work of art: planned, posed, composed, shot, and edited. Photos come easy. Portraits require more intentionality. That extra effort sometimes makes people sweat about preparing for family portraits. I get it. I have kiddos, and it is no small ordeal to get them all bathed and dressed and in a cooperative mood for a photoshoot (and, frankly, my husband doesn't exactly enjoy the process either)! If you want your family portraits to be mantle-worthy, Christmas card-worthy and FUN, read through some of my favorite tips for getting ready to have a family portrait session.
How to get a portrait instead of just a picture:
- Photographer: Take the time to do some "shopping" to find a photographer who does excellent photography AND knows how to work with young children.
- Outfits: Mamas, pick your outfit FIRST, then build everyone else's around it (neutral colors always play well, and kiddos outfits can add a pop of color). Pick your color scheme and collaborate with your photographer to decide what look you're going for!
- Readiness: Make sure the kiddos are well-rested, well-fed, and motivated. The same goes for the parents. A non-messy snack right beforehand and the promise of an ice cream date after the shoot are great ideas! Also, take a moment to let everyone know what to expect and what you expect of them. A little instruction goes a long way.
- Time-margin: Don't plan to be getting ready right down to the minute of the shoot. Remember Murphy's Law, and allow for some things to go not-as-planned. I can't name the number of photoshoots I've done when a baby has spit up on the outfit, or a toddler has been crying recently, or a Little Miss wouldn't cooperate for having her hair done... it's real life, y'all. Leave plenty of buffer time.
- Relax: It CAN be a fun process. If you've found a reputable photographer, trust expertise. Like many other photographers, I want my clients to get WAY more than just their images delivered in a gallery. I want them to enjoy their client experience from start to finish. So, find a fun photographer, and keep things lighthearted. If I'm your photographer, you know that I try to schedule in "fun breaks" when the children tire of holding still! Those moments make some really cute candid portraits!
- Accessories: The details often distinguish a photo from a portrait. The little things matter and will be well worth your time. Ironed clothes, a splash of makeup, jewelry, etc.- it all makes a difference!
- Individuals: Dress each person to look their best for their solo shot. As a family woman myself, I treasure seeing each child as an individual. These "little years" fly by so quickly, and you want to remember these darling faces: chubby cheeks, smirks and smiles, toothless grins, and giggles.
...and because I am a Family Timeline Photographer, I always make sure to get some portraits of the husband and wife, the couple who made a covenant and now work together to raise a family.
And finally:
- Trust your photographer! A portrait photographer knows things you don't know and sees things you don't see. Be willing to cooperate with requests, even if they sound strange (smile at my elbow?). Sometimes what feels awkward looks awesome! Your photographer wants you to look your best, just like you do.
In Summary,
The tip names are:
Photographer
Outfits
Readiness
Time-Margin
Relax
Accessories
Individuals
Trust
See what I did there?
If you want to book a session with me, book here!
