3 Major Steps To Take In Creating Authentic Family Photographs

How do you create authentic family photos?

At the time of booking:

When you first book a family portrait session, send the family a questionnaire. Ask questions that helps you get to know them a little bit better. Questions like, what each family members favorite candy is, or favorite drink at Sonic. These simple questions give you a small insight to their personality, but also allows topics to talk about when you take their pictures.

Day of the session:

First things first. When the session first starts, make some small talk. Be observant when doing the small talk thing. Watch their mannerisms, smiles, touches, and the candid way they stand with their arms folded and hands in the pockets.

If you are photographing them at their home, this creates a comforting atmosphere. Everyone, kids and husbands included, open up a little more than they would in a public location.

However, if you are doing the session at a park, or your local downtown area, give them an action.

Tell them to group up, then gradually watch how their arms fall on each other. If they don’t, direct them a little bit and make a connection between each other.

How to create multiple poses/photos in one setup:

While everyone is in the group, here is a shot list you can use. Keep in mind to work around your subjects.

1. wide group shot of everyone smiling (safety shot, not as heartfelt, but safe)

2. close-up group shot

3. close-up of each person, without anyone moving. Examples are below. Kids might have their arms intertwined in moms arms, or mom might be running her hand through her children’s hair. Again, if they are currently doing them, coach them and direct them through it and make them do an action. It will look authentic and lead to something beautiful.

4. Photograph the connections. Not just the faces, but also the arms and hands holding one another.

While you are there to photograph the family, don’t forget to snap some of mom and dad. Take a look at these cuties below.

Have any follow up questions. I’d be happy to help. You can email me at cristy@cristycross.com or leave a comment on this post.

*Pin these photos and add them to your Pinterest boards for inspiration.

Your Excuse Isn't Good Enough

Are you struggling with finding the time for family pictures?
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I know it can be difficult fitting into everyone’s schedule.
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Here are a few tips to help you move past that:
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1. Schedule the appointment a month in advance to prepare your family.
2. Plan your outfits two weeks prior to the session. I provide all of my family sessions with an outfit guide for free to help you out with this.
3. Let your kids be a little crazier than usual during the session. This allows for genuine smiles.

Are you done with the excuses? Good, I’m glad to hear it. Take action now and let's get a date set. Click below to start the process.

Testimonials from clients:

“That was so enjoyable. It was such a fun and relaxing experience. She is so easy to feel comfortable around. I couldn’t agree more.” -Schaap Family

“OMG yay!! Thank you Cristy. Love what you captured in the kiddos. Their little personalities came through so well and even how they interact with each other is just perfect. Such sweetness.” -Maggie

“You are the BEST!!! You have such a gift and are so experienced at your craft. You made me feel so much more at ease that I ever thought. I could. You are a gem Cristy.” -Darby

It doesn’t take much for time to slip away from us. Before we know it, the day is over and tomorrow starts a new one.
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And what does tomorrow bring? Busy-ness, to-do lists, work, school, baseball practice, piano lessons. The list goes on right?
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Can we all just take a second. A second to breath and appreciate the things around us.
Cuddling on the couch with your kids, talking about random highlights of your day with your husband, sitting still on the porch and listening to silence.
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Taking the time to sit in the presence of your family can feed your soul.
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Taking the time to be photographed with your family in your home, cuddling on the couch, preparing dinner, baking cookies, playing with dolls, stuffed animals or cars...ya know, the normal everyday stuff.
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Can I photograph that for you? The chaos, the calm, the tears, the smiles, the hugs, and all the stuff you would do when you are in down time with your family.
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Those are the memories I know I want to cherish as a mom. Those are the things I’m going to think about when my boys, who are 7 and 11, go to high school one day.
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Before we know it, time will slip away.

In other news, I want to introduce you to my friend Renee. She is an underwater photographer. Have you ever wanted to do maternity pictures…in the water? You will be blown away by her work. So beautiful and magical.

Let's Get Authentic

  For more info on getting genuine smiles of your family, you can check out the live video here.

When hiring me for your family photographer, ask yourself why you want family photos?  What's the desire behind having them done?  Also, where do you want to take these pictures?  And, what in the world are you going to wear?

Let me break it down for you.

Why get family photos?  Do you want to document your family and kids while they are little in their genuine, real-life moments? Those laughable, funny and squishy love moments? 

Where should you photograph your family? If you want those genuine moments, photographing in your home is the best place.  Families are in their environment and will be more authentic.  (Your backyard are also a great location) BUT your favorite park is also a plus! Just like this family session below.

What to wear? First off, start with mom.  Then work on the rest of the family outfits.  Keeping with solid colors is best.  You want these photos to be timeless, yet trendy. Decide on a color palette choosing between cool tones or warm tones.  For example, gray, cream and tan are a good base.  Add baby blue and dark gray for cool tones or for warm tones add maroon, camel and blush.  

Plan your outfits a week before the session.  Then, lay them out the night before so you are prepared and ready to go. 

Keep the outfits simple.  I want you to feel comfortable and relaxed.  

30 minutes to 1 hour before your session:
-Feed your kids a light snack, like apples or a banana.
-Please don't feed your children gold fish, or graham crackers or anything that will
stick in their teeth prior to the session. (for the young ones)
Feel free to do all of that AFTER the session :)

 Note to mom:

Get your hair and makeup done by a professional.  Nothing crazy or out of the ordinary.  Just having a professional to pamper you is something you deserve.  Consider it a gift to yourself.