I'm overwhelmed thinking about a family photo session // Metro Detroit Family Photographer

Don’t be overwhelmed — I’m here to help!

I know, thinking about a family photo session can be overwhelming. You feel like you need to do it because the kids have grown so much since your last family pictures, but eh. You don’t want to deal with finding a outfits, when can we even schedule it, and are my kids going to actually behave?! I get it mama. And guess what? I’ve got you covered.

I’m going to go through the three items that stress you out when it comes to even thinking about family pictures, AND set you at ease about them. Ready? Lets go!

1. Outfits

The number one stress factor I hear from moms regarding getting ready for family pictures is: I have no idea what to do for outfits!

Moms, pick YOUR outfit first.

Lets be honest, we are the most critical of ourselves and that makes US the hardest to pick the outfit for. So shop for yourself first. Find what you feel good in, and then follow the below general guidelines.

• Matching is out. Coordination is in. Pick 2-3 colors to coordinate for the rest of the family based on your outfit.

• Don't be afraid to have one person (or two, depending on the size of your family) have a small print like stripes on their outfit to give it a little pizzazz.

• Choose outfits based on the location: Fancy outfits are more fitting for a city session in Detroit. More casual, sundress vibes are fitting for out in the field. If we are doing an in-home session, wear what you'd likely wear at home so it is a homey feel (sweater and jeans!).

• Remember the shoes. For example, if your son is dressed in a nice button down and jeans, be sure to have some brown casual shoes or sandals to go with it. Those bright red Spider Man shoes will stick out like a sore thumb!

I give all of my clients a What To Wear Guide that will help when planning outfits, too! My clients remark that they find it very helpful and it gives several tips as to what to wear (and what not to wear!). And as always, when you've booked a session with me, feel free to text or email me some pictures if you're unsure about the outfits. I will give you honest feedback and suggestions (with love, of course ;)).

2. Locations

Guess what? I have several gorgeous location options around Metro Detroit. You don't have to already have a location picked out! The first question I'll ask you is: Do you want more of a nature or a city vibe? Based on that I can give you several suggestions, with just a few below to get your thoughts rolling.

• Metroparks (Stony Creek Metropark is my favorite, hands down.)

• Downtown Detroit

• The riverfront

• Belle Isle

• My studio downtown Utica for a lifestyle feel

My goal for the location is that it captures the look you want, and your family is comfortable and relaxed so I can photograph all the emotion between you all.

3. Session Expectations

So here is what you can expect from your family session with yours truly.

• I'm going to be friends with your kids.

This is always my priority at family sessions because lets face it, the kids end up kiiiind of being the boss at the session. If they are comfortable and having fun, it will shine through in the photos. If they're pouty, that will equally shine through. No matter your ability to bribe, a fake smile just isn't the same. So I'll do my best to make sure they have a good time. By the way, I absolutely l-o-v-e seeing return clients and how much their kids have grown and changed. I really do consider them my buddies. :)

• I'll give you prompts and guide you through.

I'm not a sit and pose type photographer. That's just not my style. Yes, I will do some shots like that because they're nice to have too, but my goal is to capture the emotion + connection of your family. I'll get your family set up and prompt you to do certain things to draw that magic out (Johnny, whisper in Susie's ear what you want for your birthday. Dad, hug Mom like you haven't seen her in weeks.). The result is so, so good.

• Parents, don’t worry.

These family sessions are FUN. Lets play ring-around-the-rosie, lets see who has the best fake laugh, tickle your brother! I'll have you cuddling, holding hands and all sort of things you didn't think your child would do, even those teenagers. Your kids' personalities will shine through and it.is.the.best. So don't worry - it'll be great.

How do you feel now? Less overwhelmed, ideally, and ready for those family photos?! As always, if you have any questions or you’d like to discuss a session, feel free to reach out to me. I’d love to chat!

xo,

Chelsie