ERIN MCBRINE PHOTOGRAPHY
MASSACHUSETTS FAMILY & WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
Welcome back to the blog! The 2021 outdoor portraiture season will be here before we know it! Once all this snow clears the grass will be back, the trees will be full and flowers will be abloom. Here are some tips on what you and your family should do to prepare for your upcoming session!
DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS
Don't be afraid to ask questions before your session. I promise I don't bite! Chances are if you have a specific question, somebody else has had the same question and I have answered it. I am here to make sure that you and your family have the most comfortable and enjoyable family portrait experience possible.
THINK ABOUT YOUR WARDROBE
I will dig into this topic a little bit deeper in my next blog but it is important to put some thought into you and your family's wardrobe. You want to make sure that you and your family are dressed comfortably yet confidently. You want to wear something that makes you feel good with colors that either coordinate or compliment each other. It's also a good idea to bring along a brush/comb or hairspray (if you use it). Just in case your hair gets a mind of its own, we can tame it back into place.
LOOK AT THE WEATHER
Pay attention to the weather if you are scheduled for an outdoor session. I obsessively watch the weather during outdoor portraiture season but it's always a good idea to reach out with any concerns you may have regarding the weather. When weather is concerned the only times I will reschedule a session are if it is down pouring rain, thunder & lightning or if its dangerously hot to be outside for an extended period of time and of course blizzard or hurricane conditions. A slightly overcast day is the best lighting conditions for my style of portraiture.
TRY YOUR BEST TO BE ON TIME
I completely understand that things happen. Especially for those with young children, it can be so difficult to get out the door in one piece never mind on time. Coming from a former chronic late comer, you will feel so much more relaxed if you leave your house even 5 to 10 minutes early. If you are super stressed it will show in your pictures and we definitely don't want that. If something beyond your control happens that is going to make you a little bit late just simply give me a call.
RESEARCH YOUR LOCATION
Chances are you have either picked your own location or I have recommended one to you. If you are unfamiliar with the location of your family portrait session it is important to either do some research or ask questions. I like to give a brief overview of parking and the general aesthetic of the location when confirming with you prior to the session. But there may be details that I may assume you know, so it's always a good idea to ask any question you may have. If we are headed to a location that we are both unfamiliar with, I will more than likely stop by to check it out before your session or do my own research.
HAVE SNACKS
Bring snacks with you if you have children. It's been my experience that a kiddo with a little something in their tummy is a happy kiddo. And is much more apt to cooperate and even smile. Or you can use it as bribery (lol). Either way, this is a judgement free zone! Normally I do have some wet wipes on hand to wipe away any crumbs but it’s also a good idea to bring some of your own along just in case I don't have any on hand.
BE POSITIVE, RELAX AND GET READY TO HAVE FUN!
It is my goal to give you the best portrait experience possible! I aim to make your session as easy and comfortable as I can. If you are open to having a positive and fun experience it makes my job so much easier. If your kids see you having fun they will be more comfortable and have fun themselves! So, don’t stress if you don't like being in front of the camera. 10 years from now you are going to be so happy that you have these images to look back on.
I look forward to seeing you all this upcoming outdoor portraiture season! If you haven’t booked your session yet- don't worry- there's still time you can BOOK HERE