Planning a family photo session can be an exciting yet daunting task. Whether you’re aiming for a holiday card, commemorating a special occasion, or simply wanting to capture beautiful family memories, timing is crucial. To help you achieve the best results and ensure a smooth process, here’s a blog on how early in advance you should plan a family session.
Why Planning Ahead Matters
1. Photographer Availability:
Popular photographers can book up months in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. Planning early ensures you secure your preferred photographer and session date.
2. Optimal Scheduling:
Coordinating multiple schedules—yours, your partner’s, your children’s, and your photographer’s—can be challenging. Starting early allows for flexibility and reduces the stress of finding a common time slot.
3. Weather Considerations:
If you’re planning an outdoor session, weather can play a significant role. Booking early provides a buffer for rescheduling if the weather strikes on your original date.
4. Location Permits:
Certain locations might require permits for professional photography. Planning ahead gives you ample time to secure these permits and avoid last-minute hassles.
Ideal Timeline for Planning
Six Months to One Year Ahead
Book Your Photographer:
For high-demand photographers, especially those with a unique style or who are popular in your area, it’s wise to book 6-12 months in advance. This timeframe is also ideal for securing a date during peak seasons.
Three to Six Months Ahead
Confirm Your Date and Location:
By this time, you should finalize your session date and location. Discuss with your photographer to choose the best setting that aligns with your vision and is accessible for your family.
Outfit Planning:
Start considering your outfits. Coordinated but not matchy-matchy clothing often works best. If you’re planning to purchase new clothes, order them now to allow time for any exchanges or alterations.
One to Three Months Ahead
Final Details and Logistics:
Confirm all the session details with your photographer. Discuss any specific shots you want, the timing of the session (considering lighting), and any props you might use.
Trial Runs for Kids:
If you have young children, consider a few trial runs with the outfits to ensure comfort and fit. This also helps them get used to the idea of being photographed.
Haircuts and Grooming:
Schedule haircuts or grooming appointments about two weeks before the session. This allows time for any adjustments if you’re not satisfied with the initial result.
One Month Ahead
Reconfirm the Date and Time:
Touch base with your photographer to reconfirm the session details. Verify that everyone’s schedule still aligns and address any last-minute concerns.
Practice Poses:
If you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, practice a few poses at home. This can help you feel more comfortable and natural during the session.
One Week Ahead
Final Preparations:
Lay out outfits, and ensure everything is clean and ready to go. Pack a bag with snacks, water, and any props or accessories you’ll need.
Weather Check:
Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If outdoor conditions look unfavorable, discuss a backup plan with your photographer.
Day Before
Relax and Prepare:
Make sure everyone gets a good night’s sleep. Avoid trying new skincare products or hairstyles the day before to prevent any unexpected reactions.
Day of the Session
Stay Relaxed:
On the day of the session, keep things relaxed and fun. Bring positive energy to the session, as this will reflect in your photos.
Arrive Early:
Plan to arrive a bit early to the location. This gives you time to settle in and start the session without feeling rushed.
By planning your family photo session well in advance, you ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From securing your favorite photographer to coordinating outfits and managing logistics, giving yourself ample time to prepare will result in beautiful, stress-free photos that you’ll cherish for years to come. Start early, stay organized, and most importantly, have fun capturing those precious family moments!
I hope you found these tips on how early in advance you should plan a family session helpful! For more helpful blog tips, click here! To book with me, click here!
Kind Words
“Janice is an amazing family photographer. This year, our family went from one grandchild to five! Janice understood our time constraints for photographing four children under 1 yrs of age. She worked around the children’s schedule and was able to get all the children looking at the camera at the same time!! Our family now has the most memorable pictures of our family beach vacation…10 adults, 5 children and 2 dogs!! We look forward to documenting our family every year with Janice!!” -Carol
