As a family photographer on Long Island, I have taken lots of pictures of families over the years. I get the honor to capture special moments, from tiny babies to energetic kids bouncing around. Family photo sessions can feel stressful sometimes, but they can also be really fun with the help of some simple tips.
Your family will cherish these pictures as mementos of this particular time. Years from now, you’ll look back and love these moments frozen in time. Let’s make sure you have an amazing family photoshoot on Long Island! Here are my top 5 tips for awesome family pictures:
Tip 1: Let The Kids Be Kids
The best family photos show your children’s true personalities shining through. Don’t force them into stiff, posed positions for too long. Let the little ones run around and play during the session instead. I’ll be right there capturing all their big smiles, giggles, and silly faces.
If your toddler starts busting out dance moves or the kids decide to have a leaf fight, just go with it! The most memorable shots happen when families relax and have fun together. Playing games, singing songs, or bringing special toys helps put kids at ease. Then I can get great candid shots of your family’s special bond.
Tip 2: Wear Comfy Clothes
What you wear matters, but you don’t want scratchy or stuffy outfits that make you miserable. Pick soft, flowy fabrics and lightweight clothes that everyone feels good in.
Don’t choose loud patterns, logos, or too bright colors that distract from your faces. Stick to more muted tones like beige, white, pink, denim, or green that photograph nicely. And make sure any new shoes are broken in so no one gets blisters from walking around.
You don’t need to buy matching outfits. Just coordinate a simple color palette that looks cohesive in the photos. Lay everything out beforehand to make sure it looks good together.
Tip 3: Prepare Your Kids for the Session
Getting your children ready for a photoshoot can make a big difference in how smoothly it goes. In the days leading up to our session, talk to your kids about what to expect. Explain that you’ll be going to a beautiful outdoor location to take some family pictures together.
Make it sound like an exciting journey. You could say something like, “We’re going to play in the park and take some special pictures to remember how much fun we had!” This will make them feel enthusiastic about the session.
On the day of the shoot, make sure everyone is well-rested and has eaten a good meal beforehand. Carry water and some snacks to maintain your energy levels. If your children have a favorite toy or lovey that comforts them, bring it along. Sometimes having a familiar object can help shy kids feel more at ease in front of the camera.
I’m experienced in working with children of all ages and personalities. Together, we’ll create a relaxed atmosphere where your kids can be themselves, resulting in natural, joyful photos you’ll treasure for years to come.
Tip 4: Shoot Outdoors
One of my favorite spots for family portraits is out in nature. You get that beautiful natural lighting and scenery, plus kids have room to run around and get their energy out.
Parks with wide open fields are perfect for candid shots of kids running, dancing, and exploring nature trails. If we time it right, the golden sunlight will give you warm, glowy photos.
I also know lots of gardens, beaches, and wooded areas with gorgeous backdrops for more posed but still relaxed photos. Don’t worry if it rains – we can reschedule. Unless you don’t mind some adorable rainy-day shots!
Tip 5: Loosen Up And Have Fun!
This is probably the most important tip – relax and have fun with it! Don’t put too much pressure on having a “perfect” portrait session. The best images happen when you let loose and allow some silliness.
If your toddler suddenly wants to chase bubbles or giggle at a passing dog, roll with it! Those spontaneous bursts of pure joy make for emotionally powerful snapshots you’ll treasure forever.
My job is to blend into the background while gently guiding you through a mix of playful prompts and some poses. I’ll capture your family’s unique personalities through a blend of candid moments and relaxed portraits.
To Sum It Up
Family photoshoots on Long Island don’t need to be stressful when you have a photographer who makes it an enjoyable experience. That’s exactly what I aim for as a Long Island family photographer.
I’ll craft the perfect vision and timeline, then walk you through every step so all you need to do is show up and be yourselves! Let’s work together to create meaningful portraits celebrating what makes your family one-of-a-kind.
Reach out today to start planning your dream Long Island family photoshoot. I can’t wait to document all your family’s love and laughter!