Absolutely! An outdoor family photo session can be a fantastic way to capture precious moments and create lasting memories. Although I prefer in home photo session there are many benefits to choosing a session away from your home.
An outdoor family photo session adds a touch of natural beauty and spontaneity to the mix. In this blog post, I will walk you through the steps to plan a perfect outdoor family session, ensuring stunning results that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Choosing the Right Location:
The first step in planning your outdoor family session is selecting the perfect location. Consider the interests and preferences of your family members. Whether it’s a local park, a picturesque beach, or your own backyard, the location sets the tone for the entire session. Research potential spots, taking into account the time of day and lighting conditions. Opt for a location that reflects your family’s personality and provides a comfortable and enjoyable environment for everyone.
Timing is Key:
Timing plays a crucial role in achieving the best lighting conditions for your family photos. The time of day shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers soft, warm light that enhances the natural beauty of your surroundings. Plan your session during these golden hours to avoid harsh shadows and create a flattering, natural glow in your photos.
Wardrobe Tips:
Coordinate but avoid overly matching outfits. Choose a color palette that complements the natural surroundings and suits your family’s style. Consider the season and the chosen location when selecting clothing. Layers and textures add visual interest, so encourage family members to express their personalities through their outfits. Keep in mind that if the background is full of color (like fall time) you want to compliment those colors but not match the trees etc.
Most importantly, ensure that everyone feels comfortable in what they are wearing, as it will contribute to natural and relaxed poses.
Props and Activities:
Incorporating props and activities into your outdoor family session can add a playful and personal touch. Bring items that hold sentimental value or showcase your family’s hobbies and interests. Consider incorporating activities like a picnic, fishing, skating, or simply enjoying a walk together. These elements can evoke genuine emotions, resulting in candid and heartwarming photos.
Preparing Your Family:
Communication is key to a successful outdoor family photo session. Brief your family members on the location, timing, and any specific ideas you have in mind. Emphasize the importance of a relaxed and joyful atmosphere, encouraging natural interactions. For younger children, consider bringing snacks and favorite toys to keep them engaged and happy during the session.
Capturing Candid Moments:
While posed family portraits are classic, candid moments often capture the true essence of your family dynamic. Encourage natural interactions, laughter, and genuine expressions. A skilled photographer will know how to create an environment that allows these moments to unfold organically. Don’t be afraid to let go of perfection and embrace the beautiful imperfections that make your family unique.
As you can seen from these three images time of day, location and outfit choices make a huge impact on the final images. There are all the same family over the course of a couple years. The maternity session was at sunset on the beach. Which gave for some amazing colors. The first birthday session was earlier in the afternoon on a warm summer day. The parents knew she would be at her best not long after her nap. The last one was a few hours before sunset on a cooler fall foliage kind of day. All three beautiful and unique. You just have to decide what you are looking for.
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