Preparing for your family session
Preparing your child
-Let them know this will be FUN! Limit the “if you don’t behave.” comments. As a mother, I say that probably 50 times a day, but we want them to be relaxed and themselves:)
-You don’t have to ‘teach’ them to say ‘cheese’ or smile at the camera. In fact, I’d rather they don’t! I get the most genuine laughs and giggles when I let them play and just be them
-Full belly! A full child is a happy child:). Avoid foods that may stain clothes, faces, etc. Suckers, syrup, red/orange/blue/green food dye foods. Stick with whole, nutritious foods to keep them full.
-Bribes are ok, but I try not use them or tell them about it until we absolutely need too. Some things to have: non-messy snacks
What to bring
-Water and/or bottle
-snacks (non sticky/messy)
-Favorite toy and/or lovey
-Hair brush or comb
-Diapers and wipes
-Change of clothes and change of shoes to walk to our spot
Preparing dads
-Moms I’m talking to you. Is your hubby or significant other not thrilled about photos? A little bribery goes a long way with men too;)
-But seriously, let your husband know that the shoot will be painless and just really focus on playing with the kids, holding your hand, just savoring the moments!
-It also helps to tell them how important these memories are for you, your family and him! 99% of the time, after the shoots, the men often tell me how quick and painless it went!
Day of prep
-Adjusting naps: if our sunset time is late-start adjusting naps the week of so they can be worked a bit later in the day.
-Potty! Everyone go before you leave. Usually no where to go but the forest;) unless you have boys:)
-RELAX-have you or hubby have a drink to calm the nerves if needed. I promise this will be fun, relaxing, and an amazing memory for you all.