Get Ready for Stunning Family Portraits
Expert Tips on What to Wear, How to Plan, and Making the Most of Your Edinburgh Family Photoshoot
I know family photoshoots can sometimes feel a little stressful. Between getting everyone ready, choosing outfits, and wondering how the kids will behave, it's normal to feel a little anxious. But let me reassure you: the effort you put into planning this session will be so worth it. The memories we create will become the most precious thing you have. When your children grow up, looking back at these photos will be like magic, taking you back in time to those little moments that seemed so fleeting.
Capturing your family as they are right now will be something you cherish forever. So, let's take the stress out of the process and turn it into a fun experience. Here’s how you can prepare for your family photoshoot and make sure it's a relaxed, enjoyable day for everyone.
1. Planning Ahead: Outfit Tips for Your Family Photoshoot
Choosing what to wear can be one of the most stressful parts of the photoshoot, but it doesn’t need to be! To keep things simple, focus on clothing that’s comfortable, relaxed, and fits the season. I recommend soft, neutral tones like beige, cream, or soft pastels. These colours not only complement each other but also blend beautifully with nature, especially when we’re shooting outdoors. You want your clothing to feel timeless—something that won't distract from the main focus: your family and the love you share.
If you're unsure of what to wear, I’ve written a guide on my blog that gives more detailed tips on what works best for family photos. You can check out my How to Dress for Your Family Photoshoot blog post for more inspiration.
2. Timing Is Key: Let’s Choose the Best Time for Your Photoshoot
In Edinburgh, we don’t always have a "golden hour" like in other places; I don't plan a session on that. Instead, I like to schedule photoshoots in the morning around 10 a.m. This way, everyone is still fresh and well-rested. I want you to feel relaxed and not stressed about the session all day. Happy, well-rested kids make for the best photos, and the morning light is soft and flattering, giving us a beautiful, natural glow.
If you’re visiting Edinburgh, mornings are also a great time to beat the crowds. We can start even earlier, at 8-9 a.m., before the streets get busy. This gives us a quiet, peaceful atmosphere to work with and helps your family feel more at ease. My goal is to capture the most authentic moments of your family, and starting early gives us the best opportunity to do just that.
3. Preparing Your Children for the Session
Kids can sometimes feel unsure about having their photos taken, so preparation is key. Let them know that we’re going to have fun and play together! Explain that I’m not just there to take pictures but that we’ll be spending time together, capturing real moments. Let them know I’m coming, and that we’ll be playing games, having fun, and enjoying the day.
A great way to prepare them is by telling them stories. For example, you could say, “Dorota, our friend, is coming to take some beautiful pictures of us, and we’re going to have a fun time together. We’ll play some games, laugh, and create memories!” This helps set the stage for a fun experience, and your kids will feel more comfortable when I arrive.
4. Don’t Forget Snacks and Fun Activities
This tip is especially important for families with young children. Snacks are a lifesaver! Bring some easy-to-eat snacks that your kids love. This will keep them happy and energized throughout the session. And if they’re starting to lose interest, a snack break is a great way to keep them engaged.
As for activities, let’s keep it fun and spontaneous! Simple games like "Ring Around the Rosie," "Simon Says," or "I Spy" are perfect for getting everyone involved and having a laugh. I also love to encourage some playful interaction, like family high-fives, tickling, or running around. These moments can create natural, genuine smiles and laughter in the photos.
5. Keep the Day Relaxed
Don’t over-schedule your day. It’s best to keep the rest of your day open and light, so you aren’t rushing from one thing to another. The more relaxed and free-flowing the day, the better the experience will be for you and your family. This helps everyone stay in a good mood and enjoy the session without feeling rushed.
6. Communicate with Your Photographer
One of the best ways to make your photoshoot go smoothly is by sharing as much information with me as possible. I send a client questionnaire after you book your session, and this is your chance to share any details you think will help me capture your family’s unique personality. Let me know what your kids enjoy doing, their favorite games, or any special moments you want to be included. The more I know about your family, the more I can personalize the experience for you.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT WITH DOROTA
Booking your photoshoot is simple! First, check my availability to make sure we have plenty of time to plan the session. The more time we have to prepare, the better the experience will be. I recommend booking ahead of time, so we can pick the best date and location for your family. Once we’ve decided on the date, I’ll ask for a deposit to secure your booking, and then we can start planning the details.
Don’t wait too long—dates can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons like spring and autumn. So reach out today, and let’s start planning your family’s beautiful photoshoot!
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