It’s the start of a brand new year, and what better time than to organise a family photoshoot!
Of course, such an event requires more than just smiling at the camera. From selecting the location to making sure everyone knows what is expected of them, you’ll achieve a much better outcome if you plan your session ahead of time.
To that end, here are some tips to help you before your photoshoot. Check back in tomorrow for part two of this article, where we will discuss pointers to keep in mind during the actual photo-taking session.
1. Pick a suitable location
It may seem like the most logical choice for a family photo but, depending on the number of people you want included, one’s home can sometimes look a little cluttered.
That said, whether you have a beautiful showroom home or one filled to the brim with toys and kids’ artworks, home is where memories are made, and seeing photos in a familiar place not only keeps memories alive but also makes a beautiful visual heirloom for parents to give to their kids in the future.
Alternatively, consider a nice outdoor location like a park. Children look the most natural when they’re having fun, so letting them run around in the sun, chase bubbles, or fly a kite are all great ways to get beautiful candid shots.
If your family prefers the indoors, a photography studio is a good option that will allow you to go with a theme of your choice. You could also have a staycation in a hotel room or at an Airbnb.
Whatever you decide, figure out how many people will be at the session, consider accessibility (for example, if you have anyone in a wheelchair), and what the selected location means to you.
2. Consider the time of day
Different locations will feel and look different depending on the time of day due to the position of the sun. The best time to do outdoor portraits would be from 7-9am or 5pm–7pm in Malaysia: at that golden hour, the light will look the best on you and your loved ones.
Naturally, you’ll need to consider if everyone can wake up on time for the session! It’s not easy to cater to everyone’s timing while factoring nap times for the young ones, but a little effort in this area will yield terrific results.
3. Styling your outfits
“What should my family wear?” is generally the first question families have when arranging a photoshoot. While some opt for an all-white theme, most go for outfits and colours that complement one another.
Start by choosing a colour palette of two to three coordinating shades and make sure your clothes fit into this scheme.
Also consider whether you will be doing a formal or casual photo session. The setting will come into play here: for example, a hotel lobby would look more formal compared to a garden.
Once you know the kind of photoshoot you’re going for, choose an outfit style that suits the location and communicate this to the whole family.
4. Manage everyone’s expectations
Do let your family know how long the shoot will last and what you plan to do. Many older people dislike having to take pictures for long periods, so a one- to two-hour session is usually enough.
Tell the kids what they’ll be doing ahead of time and emphasise that it will be fun! Encourage them to contribute ideas; perhaps they can come up with an activity for the family to do together, so that the day of the shoot is also seen as family fun time.
5. Pamper yourself
Before the photo session, consider booking a makeup artist so you look your best on the day without having to put in all the work yourself.
Get a manicure, put on a face mask, and – because a late night wil guarantee puffy eyes in the morning – head to bed early the night before.
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This article was written by Grace Tan for makchic, a Malaysian-based online site for chic, curious, and spirited parents. makchic has been providing trustworthy and authentic family-related content since 2013. For diverse stories of parenthood that inform, support and uplift all families, visit makchic.com and follow them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (X).