Sometimes taking family pictures in the comfort of your own home makes for the best memories. You do not need to have the largest home and you do not need the most Pinterest worthy home to create beautiful family photos. This is the place that holds the most sentimental value as you spend quality time with your family here and watch your kids grow up right in front of your eyes.
It doesn’t matter why you chose to document your family inside of your own home. Maybe you have a newborn and don’t want to deal with the elements outside. Maybe you are worried about your kids staying up too late for that lovely golden hour lighting. Maybe you are looking to get pictures taken in the middle of winter. Or maybe you are just looking for a more casual vibe. Whatever the reason, there are several things you can do to help prepare for an in home session.
Tip 1: Open up all of your window shades, blinds, shutters, etc. Let the light flood in your house. We are going to use all natural light and we want to maximize that natural light. You may not realize that light coming from lamps and overhead lights have different color temperatures than the natural light. This can create strange color casts and even put unflattering shadows on faces, so you will want to make sure all lights are turned off in the house.
Tip 2: Clear the clutter. You do not need to deep clean your home (I’m especially speaking to you new mamas out there)! But, do think about shoving that overflowing laundry basket in the closet and maybe put away other things that you don’t want showing in the photos. You will want your house to feel decluttered, but your house does not need to be vacuumed from top to bottom and you do not need your house to look empty and not lived in. In fact, keeping some things out like toys will help remind you of this stage of life you are in. We can move stuff around during the session as needed if it is in the way, but it will definitely make our time more efficient if we are not having to move that pile of mail that is trying to sneak into the picture.
Tip 3: Think about several areas in your home where we can take photos. When choosing the areas to focus on, my top priority will be light. When I first arrive, I will probably take a peak around a few places to see what is working with the light. However, if you have a newborn, you might really want several pictures in the nursery, for example. Just let me know! The primary bedroom can also be a great place to have the whole family snuggle in for photos. Do you always gather as a family in the kitchen? We will probably take some photos there as well! It is good to have several options of places we can take photos so that we can play with light and get the best memories for your family.
Tip 4: Don’t limit yourself to the inside of your house. Another place to consider preparing is your yard or your front porch. When the weather cooperates, I love to take the session outside for a portion to get the kids playing on the swing set or capture your family hanging out on the front porch. Make sure you do things like pick up the dog poop from the lawn before I arrive so we don’t have any unwanted stains when the kids start running around outside! 😉
Tip 5: Think about your wardrobes. Just as with outdoor photos, what you wear will make a big difference in how the photos turn out. Indoor photos tend to lean more casual, but that is totally up to you what you wear. Just make sure the family has a similar level of formality and that the colors/patterns complement each other for a cohesive look without being too matchy matchy. Think about your house and your decor. Choose colors that compliment what you already have going on in your house. Adding in several neutrals is always a great idea. I’m happy to work with clients on their wardrobe and offer suggestions for colors to wear, etc. As with any session, the most important thing is that you feel good in your clothes and love what you are wearing! Bare feet is always a bonus!
Tip 6: Finally, relax and be ready to have some fun! If your family loves to do certain activities together, please let me know and I’m happy to incorporate them! Whether it’s reading books under a blanket or playing on the swings in the backyard, I want to document what is most important to you. Don’t stress about the kids cooperating or their behavior. I want the kids feel comfortable and to take the lead during the session….this is your chance to relax and just enjoy being with your family. No need to discipline and force them to do things they don’t want to do.
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