Family portraits are more than just photographs—they’re memories captured in time, telling a unique story of love, connection, and togetherness. Whether it’s for a holiday card, a special occasion, or simply to document your family’s growth, a well-planned session can make all the difference in creating timeless portraits you’ll cherish for years.
Here are some expert tips to help you prepare for the perfect family portrait session with Krys DeRosa Photography!
Plan Ahead: Timing is Everything
When booking your family portrait session, consider the time of day and the environment you want to capture. For outdoor sessions, golden hour—the time shortly before sunset or after sunrise—offers soft, flattering light that will make your portraits shine. If you’re opting for an indoor session, think about the lighting and how your photographer can use natural or studio light to create warmth in the images.
Tip: If you have young children or babies, try to schedule the session around their nap time or when they’re usually at their happiest to ensure they’re comfortable and cooperative.
Wardrobe: What to Wear for the Perfect Family Look
Choosing the right outfits is essential to the success of your family portrait. The key is to keep it cohesive but not overly matchy. Opt for complimentary colors and patterns that work together without overwhelming the image.
Here are some suggestions for picking the perfect family wardrobe:
- Avoid logos and graphic designs that can distract from the faces in the photo.
- Choose soft, neutral tones like whites, creams, soft blues, and pastels. These colors photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on your family.
- Incorporate textures like denim, wool, or lace to add interest and depth to your photos.
- For a more coordinated look, pick a color palette and allow each family member to choose an outfit within those tones. This creates a cohesive yet individual feel for each person.
Tip: If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to ask your photographer for wardrobe suggestions based on the shoot’s location and style.
Be Comfortable: Natural Poses for Genuine Moments
The best family portraits are those that capture your family’s true personality. Being comfortable in your clothing and in each other’s company is key to achieving natural, relaxed poses. Encourage your family to interact with each other—hold hands, cuddle, or share a laugh. These candid moments help tell the story of your connection and love.
If you have young children, allow them to bring a favorite toy or even a snack to make them feel more at ease. The goal is to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and can be themselves.
Tip: Let your photographer guide you through a few gentle prompts, but try to avoid stiff poses or forcing everyone to smile on cue. Let the genuine moments unfold naturally!
Include Special Details: Personalize the Session
To make your family portraits truly unique, consider incorporating meaningful elements that tell your family’s story. Bring along family heirlooms, favorite books, pets, or even a meaningful prop (like a blanket or a special toy) to make your portraits feel personal and special. These touches can help your images feel even more authentic.
Tip: If your family has any traditions or hobbies you’d like to showcase, let your photographer know so they can plan how to incorporate these elements into your session.
Have Fun and Enjoy the Experience!
Family portraits should be fun and a celebration of your unique bond. It’s important to approach the session with a relaxed attitude and have fun with it! The more at ease your family feels, the more beautiful the photos will be. Remember, the goal is to create memories that you’ll look back on with fondness, so enjoy the moment, laugh, and make it a family event.
Tip: If you’re planning the portrait session around a special occasion, such as an anniversary or milestone birthday, consider making a day of it! Go for lunch afterward, or head out to your favorite spot to continue the celebration.
Trust Your Photographer
A great family portrait is as much about the photographer as it is about the family itself. With over 12 years of experience, Krys DeRosa Photography is here to help guide you every step of the way—whether that’s helping with outfit choices, suggesting poses, or making sure your kids feel comfortable. Trust your photographer’s guidance for the best results!
