Preparing your Partner for your Orange County Family Photo Session!

March 18, 2021 Family Photography, Kid Photography, Orange County Family Photography, Orange County Mini Session

One of the top questions I get asked after a client books is: "What should we do to prepare?"


Some common suggestions for preparing for a family photo session involve picking a location that fits your family vibe and outfit selections. But one of the foremost things you can do to prepare for Orange County family photos has nothing to do with either of those things. Prepping your partner for our session is one of the smartest things you can do before we meet.

Image of a family in a flower field in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Image of a young boy in a flower field in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Image of a boy and his dog in a field in San Juan Capistrano, CA

What can you do to prep your partner for your upcoming photo session?

I'm going to guess that booking me for your Orange County family photos was a one person job. Normally, it's Mom doing the research, the calling or emailing to inquire, and then the booking of the family photographer. My husband normally doesn't know the first thing about the photographer I've hired for our family photos. Fortunately, he's married to a professional photographer so he kind of knows what to expect. But this definitely is not the case for most of the families in front of my camera. Some families have never had a professional family photography session so they aren't sure at all what to expect.

Image of a mom and dad kissing their son in a flower field in San Juan Capistrano, CA
image of a family in a flower field in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Show them some of my images before the session!

A lot of people who have not had a family session assume they’re going to smile and look at the camera the entire time. They assume they need to be dressed super fancy, and their kids need to be smiling, looking at the camera the whole time. Before your session, show them my blog or my instagram! Show them how often families are looking at the camera (only some of the time!). Point out the movement, the natural laughter and connection between family members.

REASSURE THEM THAT THEY DON’T NEED TO WORRY ABOUT the kids behavior!

During sessions, the behavior of kids can really stress some parents out! Nine times out of 10, it’s the parent whom I haven’t been in contact with who gets stressed out. It might be because they don’t follow me on social media. The one who knows my style, knows that I love excited, crazy kid energy and that I am the mom to two boys of my own. Pass this info on to your partner! They are coming to a session to be playful, laugh and love on their family. Stress and tension shows in images and obviously, we don't want that!!!

Give them ideas of how they can help!

How can your partner help during our family photo session besides being playing, silly and snuggly? Let them know I'll give all the directions and suggestions (like tickle fights or follow the leader) and they can assist by getting the kids to follow along with the directions. If I am capturing images of one child, they can help by keeping the other kiddo busy and entertained. Or make goofy, silly faces behind me to help get your kiddo laughing..... dads are always the best at this! Another set of eyes on clothing or hair is always appreciated -- helping to fix a shirt, wipe a runny nose or fix hair in a baby's face.

Be a role model.

This seems obvious. No matter the situation, as parents, we should strive to model the behavior we expect from our kids. If you and your partner are relaxed and having a good time, chances are your kids will too. If you are stressed, tense and anxious for the session to end, your kids will feel that... and I will feel it. Families that have worked with me before know I always try to keep the mood very light, fun and relaxed... because that's the mood I want your images to reflect.

doing these few small things before our session, can help our orange county family photo session go much smoother!

I can't wait to meet you and your family!


See you soon,

Duffi

Orange County Family Photographer | Chaotic Perfection Photography


Interested in getting more info or booking your Orange County Family Photo session? Drop me a message! I'd love to chat and I'd be even more honored to capture your sweet family!

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@chaoticperfection