So you’ve chosen the location of your photoshoot, roped in the entire family, decided on the dress code, had a good night’s rest, and are now embarking to the rendezvous point on the morning of the session. Things are going according to plan, and it’s all thanks to your forward thinking!
Of course, there’s no guarantee that things will stay on track for the rest of the day. Nevertheless, to help things continue as smoothly as possible, here are three tips to keep in mind.
1. Bring along necessary items
Ensure you pack some snacks and toys for the little ones, plus a spare change of clothes or shoes, and your makeup kit for touch-ups. A hungry, sleep-deprived child will not look happy during a photography session, so you want to make sure their needs are met.
If you plan to head to the park, don’t forget your mosquito repellent!
2. Don’t sweat the small stuff
If you accidentally leave an item at home, it’s OK. Did your child throw up on his nice outfit? This is when you should whip out the spare clothes.
Be flexible, because things might not go exactly the way you expect. The weather may turn sour and ruin your outdoor plans. Your in-laws could take a wrong turn, arriving 30 minutes late as a result.
You can decide how to react to these circumstances: if you allow them to make you upset, you’ll end up with a miserable session. Look on the bright side and laugh it off, and you and your loved ones will have a much more enjoyable time.
3. Let your kids be kids
“What if my child throws a tantrum during the shoot?” you ask. The important thing for you as a parent is to not be flustered if your child is out of control or refuses to follow your instructions. They can sense your mood, and that will not help the situation.
Remember to come with the mindset that you’re here to have fun. Try to cheer them up – failing which, just go with the flow, even if it means your kids have pouty faces in the family portrait. It will be less stressful for you and for the children.
4. Trust your photographer
At the end of the day, trust that your photographer will do his or her best to give you beautiful images that stand the test of time. Avoid overthinking every pose, such as whether your postpartum belly is showing in the shots.
Be present during the session, have fun, and relax. The images won’t lie, and your expression will reflect what you truly feel in the moment, which, hopefully, will be joy.
Here’s to a happy and smooth-sailing family photoshoot to ring in the New Year!
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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).