The Secret to Amazing Family Photos in Chicago

Have you ever looked at someone’s family photos and wondered, “How do they all look so happy and carefree?” I’ve got some great tips to help you come prepared to have that kind of session and gallery.

 

1.       Styling and Wardrobe

Gone are the days of white shirts and denim and matchy-matchy outfits. There are so many ways to style your family to get the most gorgeous family photos! The main goal is to coordinate and NOT match. The other important goal is to have each family member be themselves. Dress to be the best version of YOU, same for your spouse and kids. And I’m always here to help!

I have a blog post to help you be your most confident self.

2.       A Carefree Attitude

I know how difficult this can be. Trust me, I have been there! My best photo sessions are the ones where the parents are easy going and joyful. The ones who laugh off the tiny things. If you go with the flow and act like everything your child does is the cutest thing you have ever seen, I promise your photos will turn out amazing.

3.       “SMILE”

Please don’t. Let’s try to find a way, together, to make your child smile and laugh naturally. Absolutely no one likes being told to “smile”, “please do your real smile”, or “show your teeth”. Most of the time, a child is just uncomfortable in front of the camera. I know a lot of adults who feel the same way. It takes a minute for there to be trust between me and them. Once they feel like they are doing a great job, the real smile appears. Be encouraging or say something funny that will make them laugh!

4.       Yes Day

Family photos should be the main event of the day. Try not to schedule photos on a day when your child has a baseball game or a birthday party. And let’s try having a “Yes Hour”. For 1 hour, your kids won’t get into trouble for anything. Be the cool, care-free parents and let them have fun ideas AND go along with them. Embrace their creativity. Discipline is not allowed. But if they are going a little crazy or being unsafe, redirecting them with a new idea works wonders.

5.       Be Affectionate

During our session, I want you to be extra snuggly. Run your fingers through their hair, touch their face, whisper in their ear. Give your partner a kiss on the cheek or put your arms around them and gaze at your kiddos while they explore and play. Embrace. Touch. Snuggle. Kiss. The photos will turn out so much better when these things are happening; whether its directly in front of the camera or in the background. When you keep these things in mind and do them naturally, without me asking, its so much more natural and authentically you.

6.       Me!

Choosing the right photographer for you family is SO important. It can be a little scary and vulnerable to get in front of a person with a camera, who you do not know. I truly care about your family and your story. I have 4 kids, I feel the joys of family and being a mom. I also understand how hard it can be. I want our session to reflect who you are as a family, not just my agenda. I am a very “go with the flow” photographer. I will never make your kids do anything they do not want to do. I will never get frustrated with you kids. I am very patient. I will not force them to smile. I love to follow their ideas. I’m also a firm believer in helping everyone relax and have fun. Let’s make this a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone! I have families coming back year after year because it truly is easy and fun when we do it the right way. I promise 😊