For parents with small children, photo sessions can easily start to feel like a relay race – the planning of outfits, prepping the kids, getting to location on time, the list goes on! To reduce that pressure, I’m sharing my top prep tips so you feel right on track for your next Augusta GA Family Photography session.
How to prepare for your Augusta family photo session –
Location and Timing
If you’ve chosen a meaningful outdoor location or beautiful spot for your session, anticipate meeting around golden hour (the hours around sunrise and sunset) for the best natural light. This works great for families, especially in the fall, as golden hour starts earlier; meaning happier kids who aren’t up way past bedtime!
Planning for a family session indoors? Most assume they need to clean the whole house to “be ready” for an in-home session, but in truth, very little prep is needed before your session! You’ll want to tidy-up just the rooms you plan to use, usually one or two well-lit areas of your home, and open shades/blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.
Coordinate Outfits
Outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In thinking about what pieces compliment each other, you create more visual interest and allow each personality to shine through.
Can’t decide on a color palette? Consider outfits in colors and patterns that reflect your family’s home and style. After all, you’ll be incorporating these images into your home decor, so looking at the palettes and textures that already exist there is a great starting point!
Plan For Success
When you’re planning “getting ready” time before your session (scheduling your hair, makeup, etc.), give yourself more time than you think you’ll need. Account for things like traffic, getting lost and parking, so you can prevent unnecessary stress, and instead arrive a few minutes early to your session and be ready to start on time.
Rest and Relaxation
As well as possible, ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep before the session. Walk through your family’s normal nighttime routine together, keep your kids on their normal nap schedule, and limit screen time in the hours before your session.
Snacks and Comfort
Bring snacks, water, and any comfort items your children might need to keep them happy and cooperative. I suggest neutral-colored toys in case they end up in your photos.
Relaxed Atmosphere
Approach the session with a relaxed, playful attitude to ensure natural, joyful interactions are captured. Remember, the best photos often come from candid moments of fun and connection!
By following these tips, your session will not only be a beautiful way to document your family’s growth and love but also an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
Hey, friend! I’m so thankful you are checking out my work here at my website and blog!
Amy Najmon Photography specializes in family photography in Augusta, GA, as well as maternity and newborn photography for the entire CSRA, including Aiken, Graniteville, North Augusta, Martinez and Evans.
I love filling my calendar with moms desiring a custom experience and family images exuding joy. I provide personalized session planning, a size-inclusive client wardrobe of dresses for mom (sizes XS – XXL), outfit styling for the whole family, and hair and makeup recommendations so your session as seamless as possible. All you need to do is arrive and be ready to play and snuggle with your children.
If you love these photos and are looking for Augusta family photography, I would love to photograph your next portrait session. To see more of my child & family portfolio please click here. And if you are interested in a personalized portrait session with Amy Najmon Photography and would like more information about the experience, please click here.
I’m currently accepting both studio and outdoor family sessions for the rest of 2024 and into 2025. If you would like to reserve space on my calendar for your Augusta area family photos, I would love for you to contact me here.
