grin and bear it

I think we can all agree, taking family photos can be a nightmare.

Don’t be mistaken I absolutely love the end result…a precious moment in time captured for all eternity by a professional photographer. Believe me, no one loves a family photo more than me but sheesh it’s a lot of work.

Since becoming a blogger these sort of photo shoots happen about once a week so I feel like we’ve got it down now. Sure there will still be the occasional meltdown (from the kids or Gabe hehe) but for the most part it’s actually a fun experience.

How in the world is this so? I’ve put together a list of tips and tricks that work for us, so hopefully they’ll work for you!

PREPARATION

Being prepared for your family photo shoot (just like anything in life) can be the difference between success and failure. (Aka awesome pics and ones you’d like to redo.)

A few weeks before we shoot I start planning out our outfits. This can feel frustrating I totally get it! My trick is to pick out my outfit first…something I like and feel comfortable in AND THEN I pick out clothes for the rest of the fam that coordinates. Because really the kids and Gabe will wear whatever I pick out so I may as well have first dibs right?!

After you’ve picked out your outfits, the rest of the work comes the day before and day of the shoot. Stuff like ironing/steaming clothes and picking out the right accessories should be taken care of day before just in case!

I always make sure to feed my kiddos a big meal with lots of protein before we shoot. Full tummy’s equal waaay better moods. Save the sugary stuff (see the next section Bribes) until you’re done shooting. The last thing anyone needs is a huge meltdown in the middle of pics.

“Expect the worse, bring lots of treats, and try to have fun.” -Marilena Kalfountzos Photography

BRIBES

Any sane parent knows that bribes are the way to go if ya need to get something accomplished. So whatever your kids are into…get that! Could be a little toy, new coloring supply or a sweet treat!

If you’re kids are little like mine and need a little somethin’ somethin’ during the shoot go for it but remember NOTHING MESSY! That means no chocolate, gum, anything sticky or melty or potentially staining.

My go-to is Tic Tacs, Mentos and for this particular shoot candy corn. All of these treats can be eaten quickly or hidden behind a toothy grin.

And on that note, if your hubby is anything like mine, taking photos is right up there with cleaning the gutters and watching soap operas. Haha ok maybe not that bad, but it’s def not on the top of the list for fun Friday night activities. Why not offer him a glass of wine before the shoot or better yet bring the bottle with ya?! I try to make it as painless as possible for Gabe by picking out his outfit, asking him to arrive at the very last second and promising some delish takeout when we’re done.

Photographer

We’ve been lucky enough to work with so many great photographers over the years and that definitely makes a difference. The photographer is often responsible for choosing the location (very important element), suggesting poses and encouraging your kids!

So when you’re choosing a photographer make sure you feel comfortable working together. Capturing these special images can be an intimate process and you want to feel totally in tune with your photographer!

Most importantly…HAVE FUN! Relax and smile and don’t stress about your kid’s behavior. Let them pick flowers, chase eachother or climb a tree. Some of my very fav pics happen when we’re not even posing. Don’t take these photos too seriously and smile knowing that no matter what you’ll have beautiful memories to look back on.

Photography: @MarilenaK.Photography

Hair: @Sacbuttercups

Makeup: @elysaquintella