How to prepare for your in-home photo session.
As a San Diego Family Photographer, I often meet parents who are seeking an easy and natural way to capture authentic family memories – without the random props, awkward posing, or driving to a random location with all the kids in tow!
In-home photo session are the perfect solution. I love capturing the beauty that exists in the everyday home environment. And even amongst chaotic moments; I’ll provide gentle guidance to bring out natural connections and capture your crew enjoying real activities together.
I know the idea of a photographer coming into your home may feel intimidating. Rest assure you don’t need perfectly behaved kids or professionally styled high-end rooms to get amazing photos at home. Here are my best tips for how to prepare your home (and your family):
1. GET YOUR HOME “EVERYDAY” TIDY
Put away anything you don’t want showing in your photos, but don’t make your home feel sterile. Find the balance that’s right for you. Grab a laundry basket or empty box and store unwanted items in a spare room or closet. I find every day items make the home feel authentic and is a reminder of this stage of your lives. It also reduces the pressure of perfection during the session.
2. PREPARE AN ACTIVITY
Before I arrive, set up a a game or activity you enjoy doing together as a family. Maybe it’s a board game you play often, or books you read before bedtime. We can explore outdoor activities as well like tossing a football around. Bubbles are always a win for little ones. Setting everything up prior is key, so we’re using the best of our time.
3. OPEN THE CURTAINS AND BLINDS
During your session, we’ll want to maximize the natural light. Turn off all lamps and open all the curtains and blinds before I arrive. You can give me a brief tour of your home when I arrive. We’ll use the brightest rooms in your home for the best photos.
4. GATHER PERSONAL ITEMS
In-home sessions are the perfect opportunity to incorporate personal or sentimental items such as a handmade blanket, comfort toys, a framed photo of a lost one, special artwork your kiddo wants to show off, etc. Gather up any special items that you’d like captured and I will make sure to incorporate them.
5. WEAR SOMETHING COMFORTABLE
When you feel good in your photos, you will look good. Prioritize comfort for all members of your family. An in-home lifestyle session is the perfect excuse to dress down, rather than up. Casual outfits and bare feet lend themselves to more snuggles and playtime, which leads to more loving, connected photos that you will be thrilled with! It’s also a good idea to dress in lighter colors which will bounce more light onto your faces, and stick to small patterns rather than big chunky ones. All the attention should be on your beautiful face and expressions, not on your outfits.
6. PREP SOME SNACKS
Snacks are great to have in case anyone gets hangry. Prepare some easy, clean, bite-sized snacks that can be consumed quickly, like cheese cubes, apple slices, clear juice or water. Avoid anything that stains the mouth or sticks in the teeth, like red juice or fruits, cheetos, etc.
7. LOOSEN UP
The best photos happen when your kids are 100% comfortable being themselves around me. If you go into the session feeling like a ball of stress, your kids will pick up on that energy, and they won’t let their hair down. Spend 5 minutes “shaking it out” with a family dance party, before I walk through the door. If it would help ease tensions to crack a beer before I arrive, go for it. The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will be.
Remember! In-home sessions don’t have to be stressful.
The key is to create a comfortable setting where you can all relax and be yourselves. You can transform your space into a welcoming haven that showcases your family’s story.
Let go of any expectations of perfection, trust in the process, and relax as I capture some authentic moments unfold in your home.
