Start with the end in mind
Prepare for your extended family session
We want to avoid the chaos of running out the door with changes of clothes in hand, kids crying, mom upset, and everyone generally not looking forward to smiling for photos and videos. Preparing ahead of time can set yourself up for success, so I’ve gathered some helpful tips, tricks, and hacks to make things run smoothly.
I am so looking forward to our time together. These last few pieces of information should help you prepare for your session.
Relax. This is going to be easier than you expect.
Once you book, you’ll fill out a questionnaire that helps me get to know your family. I'll review it and give you a call before our session. Bring your questions to that phone call and we will come up with a loose plan for the shoot and customize it to be authentic to your family.
A typical session will start with me “just hanging out” and not shooting. This gives children a chance to get used to me and get rid of a little pent-up energy.
Once we have gotten acquainted, I’ll start capturing your family. Photo-only sessions will be about one hour in length. The time of our shoot will depend mainly on the season and type of session you choose.
Meet your photographer
I’m Lindsey - a 90s girl and your personal third wheel. We’ll work together to curate a session that fits your family best and that’s where I want to be. I’m a mama to three boys and married to my youth group sweetheart capturing your magical, everyday moments.
What to expect
The money shot is first! You know, the one where everyone is smiling at the camera? I know it’s important to your family to have it, so I do that first.
From there, I break down the whole family into as many different groups as possible, for example: Grandma and Grandpa with all grandkids, just grandkids, Grandma and Grandpa with their "original" kids, each of those siblings' families, just siblings, just guys, just girls, etc.
After that, we move to a different location and do it all over again! I try and do this up to 3 times with varying poses and locations so you have options.
Often, a family will have a special request. I'll chat with you on the phone before our session, be sure to let me know if you have anything out of the ordinary you'd like me to shoot.
Confidence shows on camera, let’s make sure you and your family show up confident and ready!
The big question: what do we wear?
Mom, choose your outfit first.
If you don't like what you look like, you will not like what I deliver. Think comfort. If you're fixing bra straps, tugging down undershirts, or stepping on your dress the whole time, your discomfort will show. Wear something you get compliments on and love! Try pieces on together.
Carry similar elements throughout the family’s wardrobe.
Once Mom looks great, dress the rest of the family. Carry similar elements throughout the family's wardrobe. Lay it all out on the bed to see if it's working together.
Earth tones + Neutrals + Textures = Perfection!
Texture reads beautifully on camera. Knits, linens, or gauzy materials are always nice. I love something with some flow. A dress, tunic, or lightweight sweater will work really well.
What should I look out for?
-Neon never reads well on camera.
-Green is tricky if your location is a field. You kind of blend in. However, people have made it work, so if you’re really set on green, it’ll still be a beautiful shoot!
-Graphic t-shirts can work if they are layered correctly and not distracting. Send me a picture!
-Check socks. I'd rather film bare feet than white gym socks. Even if your pants hide them in standing, they will peak out when you sit.
-Oops! Hair ties on wrists, FitBits, and cell phones sticking out of a pocket can really wreck a shot.Need more help?
Always feel free to text me a picture of your outfit, and check out Style & Select on Instagram for lots of inspiration.
Go beyond the digitals
Now is the time to start deciding what you'll do with these photos. After you share the digitals on social media, what is your goal?
Do you prefer seeing your family up on the walls? Do you want a large framed print for the mantel or in a gallery in the hallway? Or maybe you love to display photos in a coffee table album?
The physical photos matter. When my dad died, the pictures were all I wanted. And you better believe I was looking through every last home video to get a glimpse of him. To hear his voice and see him healthy and happy.
In the present, they will show your children how much they are valued and loved every time they see the photo on the wall. Photos and videos matter. They will matter to your children one day more than you will ever know.
Penny for your thoughts
I know there’s a lot to prepare for your session, but don’t stress. Let me know how I can help and run through a few more tricks of the trade below!
tips, tricks, hacks
Eat beforehand or have a few snacks on hand to hold off the hangry
If you’ve got a little one prone to spit up, bring an extra onesie or shirt (just in case)
Bring a blanket, heirloom, or element you’d like worked into the shoot
I can’t wait for your session, it’ll be great!
