As an Interior BC and Alberta photographer and mom of 3 children, I completely understand your angst.
When you think of family photos, you probably think of the usual “Everyone look and smile at the camera!”. How uncomfortable- and to side with the kids- totally not fun. This couldn’t be further from the style of photography I capture.
As a mother of children aged 4-14, I am an absolute PRO at finding ways to keep your kiddos having fun and engaging with the family in meaningful ways, meaning they cooperate, AND that you get your beautiful and candid family photos. Focusing on connection and adventure ensures we get genuine smiles and laughter. This is called lifestyle photography. Using prompts, I gently guide you into ways that capture the dynamic of your specific family. Capturing you as you are is my passion, and I truly believe every single family is beautiful and unique. Starting with an stress-free consultation, we get to know each-other and co-create what your ideal session will look like. Outfits, location, your dream board if you have one. Every little detail will be covered during this consultation. No pressure if you don’t feel like we are a match!
Now, back to the kids. Prepare your children in advance for the photoshoot and set them up for success by making it exciting! “We are going to go on an adventure today and Jackie is going to take pictures of us while we have fun!”. This works because it gears their brains for expecting it to be a good time. Avoid bribing and saying things such as “IF you behave we can go get an ice cream after! But only if you’re good”. This already sets them up to think it’s going to be a bore and that they are not going to have fun at all. The adventures always change depending on the location, but you can expect there will be some rock-throwing (a fan fave!), racing, hide and seek, checking for boogers (you’ll just have to trust me on this one), climbing, jumping, cuddles and kissing!
Between you (the parents) and myself, we’ve got this! I haven’t had a single photoshoot where children weren’t running, giggling, and having a fantastic time. I’m very good at suggesting the children do something that I want them to do, but making them think it’s their idea.
At the end, you’ll be so surprised at easy it is when you let go. You’ll wonder why you even stressed at all!
