What to Bring to Your Family Photo Session - Laura Pope - Fairfax, Virginia Family Photographer
When it comes to a family session, it's best to come prepared! I've put together a quick list of what I think is the most useful to pack with you on a photo session!
1.) I almost always bring a blanket with me to a family session. They're great for seated poses and depending on the weather, they can be fun to wrap up in for a different look. If you have one that you'd like to use, feel free to bring it! Make sure that it's a neutral color. Bright colors can leave a color cast on skin. The one above is from Target.
2.) Wipes! If you're a mom, you will most likely have these on hand, but don't forget them in the car! They're great for wiping faces right before we start, or using on dirty hands if we stop to play for a bit.
3.) Books are a great way to get some seated photos. Some kids just don't want to sit still, so reading a book can help get them to slow down for a few minutes. Plus, photos of reading to your children are super special! A past client brought a special book for her daughter who was just starting to read, and we got some really sweet photos of her early reader. It was such a great way to document that sweet time!
4.) Bring your make up bag with any essentials that you think you might need. Eyeliner, lip gloss, chapstick and bobby pins are all good things to have on hand. A comb is also a great thing to tuck in there for pesky fly aways.
5.) Bug spray. This is especially important during the summer months. There are several locations that I use in South San Jose that this would be super handy for. If you aren't comfortable using a regular bug spray, try this one from Honest Co. or make your own with essential oils!
6.) Don't forget a snack! Hungry kids make grumpy kids, and we want to have as much fun as possible! Try and make sure that the snack you bring won't stain skin or clothes.
7.) Water for everyone! Especially in the summer. We'll be doing a lot of walking and running around, so make sure to stay hydrated. This cute bottle is from Target.
8.) Bring their lovey or a favorite toy. Small stuffed animals tucked into their arms are precious. My two girls love these Hazel Village dolls and their Jellycat bunnies.
9.) A good bribe. I hate to say it, but this is a powerful tool! I'll always have some lollipops in my bag to offer when we're nearing the end of a session, but even more impressive is an offer from you to stop and get ice cream on your way home. Seriously, it can be a game changer as long as you save it for when we're finishing up.
Above all, just remember to have a great time! I know this sounds easier said than done, but if you walk into a photo session willing to have a good time, everything else will follow. I promise!
Laura Pope is a Northern Virginia Family photographer with clients throughout the DC Metro Area. If you'd like to book a session, please email at laura@laurapopephotography.com