It seems insane to expect 15-20 minutes to produce amazing images that you love forever, but I promise, it’s possible! There are a few things you can do to help get the most out of the short time we have together.
1) Arrive on Time!
I can’t stress this one enough. Early even, if you think there may be some struggles getting warmed up. Too many times I’ve had clients who have been late and I’m unable to provide the full 15-20 minutes they’ve booked for their session. Many photographers have a clause in their contracts stating that time is taken off of the session for not being on time. Because many themed minis are scheduled back to back, it leaves little to no wiggle room regarding tardiness.
2) Book your time slot around naps and meals.
Sometimes you can’t avoid it. Babies and toddlers inevitably fall asleep in the car on the way to the session. Then you’ve got a sleepy, and usually grumpy, kiddo on your hands. No amount of bribery or silly antics can cheer them up. When possible, I always encourage parents to plan around nap time and meal times. A well rested and fed child is usually a happy child! Usually! When you think your child MAY fall asleep on the way, see suggestion number one!
3) Bring snacks and toys.
Even as adults, the promise of food or fun after an event we don’t particularly care to attend is motivating. This goes for anti-picture-session-husbands as well! Kids who are shy may take a minute to warm up to your photographer, but bringing some fruit snacks, orange slices, a favorite toy or anything your child is particularly fond of, can help coax them out of their shell and make them more willing to participate in the session. Personally, this is why I prefer lifestyle sessions with a few poses. In order to capture a child’s personality, play and activity are almost a must. VERY few children are happy sitting down and posing for pictures.
4) Listen to your photographer!
One of the hardest things as a photographer is to have a wonderful family in front of your camera, and then have them have NO desire to cooperate with prompts. Getting genuine smiles, feelings and fun is an art. I will many times offer a funny (or not so funny) joke to get smiles. An example for a couples shoot that works almost every time is, “In your sexiest voice, tell him/her the name of your favorite breakfast cereal.” Is it dumb? Absolutely! Does it get laughs that are genuine? Also absolutely! Play along. I promise, I’m not judging you. I’m waiting for the look I’m after and paying no attention to how sexy your voice is or isn’t! Want a cozy, sultry look? “Kiss her forehead, close your eyes and imagine being alone on a beach with her, taking in your time together.” Sometimes loosening up and letting your photographer guide you will get you better results than you expected!
5) Have FUN!
This one is the hardest one. But if you don’t want to be there, it shows. Build up your excitement for the session. Make an afternoon (or morning) of it. Grab a bite to eat, talk about poses YOU would like with your family/significant other. Have an idea for a FUN pose or image you would like to try. As a photographer, I LOVE collaborating WITH my clients. Not just telling them what to do. The poses or ideas you have tend to help to reflect your personalities and make the images more meaningful.
6) If you’re bringing pets, bring snacks and toys….just like kids.
I have tricks up my sleeve for pets, children and husbands. But you know them best. I absolutely LOVE including the fur babies in family pics! BUT, they know you best. Your commands, their favorite treats, a squeaky toy or a fun game can trigger the behavior you want. Capturing the perfect pose along with a reflection of their personality is always the goal and isn’t hard to bring out with the right tools!
7) Plan ahead!
I am always happy to make open ended suggestions that will provide as much help as possible. Clothing, themes, colors. Very common questions. I promise you, as a photographer, I want to help you! Ask questions! But take that advice and make it your own as well. Being comfortable in an outfit is important. Your level of comfort shows in the pictures!! Plan potty breaks ahead of time. Plan outfits, ones you and your family are comfortable in.
There are lots of ways to get the most out of your short session. Communicating with your photographer is the best way to be prepared and know what to expect. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your mini session, REACH OUT!!
