10 tips on how to prepare for a family photo shoot

1. Find the right photographer

Finding a photographer shouldn't be difficult, Instagram is full of creative people, so choosing someone whose photos you like shouldn't take much time. If you're really stuck, try going through hashtags like #rodinnefoceni or #fotografPraha (or insert your location) and the accounts of the photo-creators will just flock to you!

2. Choose not only based on photos, but also based on your likes

You will certainly find a lot of offers or accounts of photographers. But how to choose the right one? Be aware that family photography is a creative process, in which it is not only about the final photos, composition, color or light. It's also about atmosphere and emotion. Everyone should enjoy the photo shoot, including fathers and children, so it is important to have a relaxed atmosphere "on set". Therefore, take a look at photographers' stories and find out how they affect you as a person or ask around if anyone has personal experience with the creator in question. A great family photographer is not just a picture-taker, but also a psychologist, an entertainer and a good person!!

3. Before taking photos, clarify what you expect from him

Do you have a chosen photographer? Hurrah! Send him a request. Ideally, find a few dates at home that suit everyone and send them to the photographer together with the idea of ​​the photo shoot. Think about how many photos you want and maybe you can also find references on Instagram or Pinterest. Will the photo be taken in nature or in the city? At your home or perhaps on the playground? All this information will help the photographer to prepare a price tailored to you.

4. Clothes make the man

An aesthetically perfect photo is not just about light or composition. It also applies to outfits. Think about where you will be taking photos and choose appropriate clothing for the environment. Photographers will also appreciate it if the whole family is coordinated, for example tone-on-tone, or if you all wear outfits according to a common color palette. Don't be afraid to bring different outfits or what to wear with you to the photoshoot, discuss with the photographer a day in advance, for example by sharing photos via Whatsapp.

5. No signs at all, Dad

Big logos, giant inscriptions or bold patterns are definitely not good for a family photo outfit (yes, dads, I'm looking at you first!). Rather, go for minimalist muted pieces .x, neutral or pastel colors, or dresses and shirts with a delicate pattern. The faces of all participants will stand out, while inscriptions and logos would be rather a distracting element in the photos.

6. A make-up artist will make your day

Before a photo shoot, I often recommend clients to hire a make-up artist - not because they wouldn't look the world without it, but when a woman trusts herself in the hands of a professional, she blossoms completely! It's probably the feeling that someone is taking care of her, that she was "dressed up" by a pro - this will do wonders for her self-confidence and the photos will be even happier and more relaxed! Most photographers know a makeup artist and will give you a recommendation. It's definitely an investment that pays off!

7. Find a suitable time to take photos

Even though the rhythm of many families is governed more by when the babies sleep and when they are awake, try to figure out with the photographer when the ideal time will be for taking pictures - for you and for all of you. It is great to take photos in the morning, when the streets or parks are not yet full of people, or, conversely, in the early evening during the golden hour, when the light is simply beautiful.

8. Don't underestimate snacks and toys

What are we talking about, even the most fun photo shoot can get boring after a while. It may happen to you that, for example, it will not be a lively activity for smaller children, and after a while they will start to "go on strike". That's when the candy comes in! Keep some treats, fruit, or a favorite toy in your pockets to distract the kids from the fact that they are taking pictures. Together with the photographer, come up with a game or a challenge for the children, during which beautiful authentic photos will be created and the robot will not even notice that it is being photographed!

9. Photo taken, what next?

Some photographers like to choose their favorites from the photos taken by themselves, others like to send you previews of all the photos taken, and you can pre-select which ones you want to edit. Either way, it's a good idea to discuss this with the photographer beforehand. And remember that photography is a creative discipline and that every photographer has a different style of photo editing. So choose a photographer from the beginning according to what is close to you personally. After all, there is nothing worse than forcing the creator to do something that does not suit him.

10. Beautiful photos, my photos

Do you have your photos yet? And could I see them? You are sure to enjoy them and look forward to sharing them with your friends on social networks! But don't forget that the photos are the photographer's work and don't interfere with them - cropping, adjusting colors or contrast, all of this could not only freeze the photographer, but sometimes even annoy them. Therefore, if you wish to make some small adjustments to the photo, ask the author for it and he will surely accommodate you. And when sharing photos, don't forget to mention the photographer - you'll surely make him happy!