TIPS FOR A RELAXED AND ENJOYABLE FAMILY PHOTO SESSION

What an amazing family session the other weekend! Meeting this beautiful bunch of people, all cheery despite the early morning, just made my heart sing!
I know that getting family photos always starts out as a great idea. Beautiful photos of your loved ones up on your walls looking picture perfect. Right? But then thoughts start running through the back of your mind, making it seem daunting, stressful and all a bit too hard.

Will the kids behave? Will hubby be stroppy because he doesn’t want to be there and it’s his day off? Will we need to get new outfits for everyone? Will it just end in tantrums?

It's totally normal to have these worries - I've had them myself as a mom! Trust me though, a bit of preparation makes all the difference between chaos and a smooth, enjoyable shoot. Nearly every family tells me afterwards how much fun they had and how it wasn't nearly as stressful as they expected. My favorite feedback? It came from a session with two reluctant teenage boys who were practically pushed out the door by their mother. On their way home, they actually admitted "wow, that was actually fun." Now that's what I call a victory!

The tips I'm about to share will help you get everyone ready and feeling confident before the big day. Once you've got these basics covered, all that's left is to relax and enjoy making memories together!

PICK A PLACE THAT’S NATURAL FOR YOUR FAMILY

Every family has their own special way of being together - maybe you're the sporty bunch who can't resist a game of catch, or the adventurers who live for beach days and bush walks. Perhaps you're most at home cuddled up in your living room. Before every session, I send out a questionnaire and have a chat with my families to really understand what makes them tick and what moments they'll want to look back on in a decade's time. I've found that when families are doing what they naturally love, it stops feeling like a formal photoshoot and becomes more like a fun family day out - just with someone there to capture all those genuine giggles, silly moments, and precious memories you'll treasure for years to come.

DON’T PLAN TOO MUCH ON PHOTO DAY

Try to choose a day for your photo session that isn't packed with other commitments. Skip days when you've got afternoon swimming lessons, sports practice, school trips, or other activities planned. This is especially important if you have little ones - tired toddlers and photoshoots don't mix well!

LET THE KIDS BE THEMSELVES

Let your children's true personalities shine through. If you've got a shy little one, there's no need to push them to be outgoing. If your kid is full of energy and always on the move, that's perfectly fine too.

TIME THE SESSION TO YOUR CHILD’S BODY CLOCK

Are your little ones bright-eyed bushy-tailed in the morning but turn into grumps by dinner? Then an early session might be perfect for you. Got teens who love their sleep-ins (I hear you, parents!)? Let's schedule for later in the day when they're more likely to be in a good mood. While that gorgeous golden hour light is beautiful for photos, working with your children's natural rhythms is even more important.

If you have been thinking of a family session this Spring, then reach out, I`m having a very special promotion now for Beach mini sessions, only for February. Only 250 sgd for family session and 5 digital images. It´s a bargain if you ask me:)
Big hugs
Gunilla