10 tips from a professional photographer

Fall is everyone's favorite time of year for family photos! Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your professional photo session this year.

1. Schedule at a time when your children are happy. Yes, the hour before sunset is a golden hour! HOWEVER, all the buttery gold light in the world won’t save the session if your toddler is typically down for the count at 4:30. Pick the time of day when your kids are happiest and then from there, choose a location that will work. Happy people = happy pictures.

2. Find that tree. All you need is one colorful tree to make some beautiful fall pictures. So don’t panic if the leaves are starting to fall and you haven’t had your session yet. Find that one tree, and you’re set!

3. Aw, man! The leaves fell and we haven’t had our session yet. Have no fear! Find a park with lots of leaves covering the ground. Rake up a giant pile and throw your whole family in there. 

4. Layer your clothes. Fall temperatures fluctuate quickly. Choose outfits that can easily be added on to or taken away from in order to keep people feeling comfortable. Happy people = happy pictures.

5. Don’t schedule the session during game time! The quickest way to make Dad miserable is to schedule your shoot during a game. I know, I know … I’ve already said to schedule the shoot when the kids are happy … and now when Dad, too. It’s a lot! But again (say it with me) … happy people = happy pictures.

6. Bring fall snacks. A thermos of cocoa. A few wrapped candy apples. Apple cider donuts in a basket. These photo-worthy snacks can buy more camera time with an I’ve-just-about-had-it toddler. Keep the treats in the trunk and surprise the gang with their fall snack at the end.

7. It’s ok to scour Pinterest looking for inspiration, but be ready to let go when you arrive at your session. Yes, use the ideas to plan a loose outline for your session (and please share it with your photographer ahead of time, too!), but the moment that car door opens, it’s time to let go. 

8. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE to pick out your outfit. And mom, please pick out your outfit first! Most women are terribly hard on themselves. Start by picking out something that makes YOU feel good. And then dress the family to coordinate with you. Here are some more tips just for Moms.

9. Don’t wait too long to book. Fall is THE busiest season for portrait photographers. Book as soon as you choose your photographer. 

10. Enjoy your images. If you are working with a photographer who sells prints … book time to pick out prints. Or, if you’ve purchased digital negatives … please, please, please … do something with them! Check out mpix.com, pinholepress.com, artifactuprising.com for some awesome ways you can enjoy your pictures.

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