5 Tips for a Stress-Free Family Session // Crystal Lake Photographer

Tip 1 — Check the weather the week of your session. The weather in the midwest changes so much from day-to-day that sometimes we find ourselves planning a spring outfit and it ends up being winter-like weather. If you check the weather about 3 days before your session, you’ll have plenty of time to adjust and add a sweater if needed, or swap an entire outfit depending on the weather. If you would like tips on styling your family for your spring or summer session, check out my blog post here. Fall and winter styling tips will be coming soon. 😉

Tip 2 — Don’t worry about trying to get the kiddos to smile during a family photo. I’ll be dancing behind my camera, singing and making silly faces to get those sweet little giggles and smiles flowing. As long as you’re relaxed, having fun and smiling, the kiddos will ease into the session and open up. Plus, I consider those shy little looks to be sweet and precious — definitely images worth capturing whether there is a smile on their face or not. Be ready to have fun and show off your family’s personality!

Tip 3 — Pack a bag full of any and all of the goodies you may need for your session. This includes back-up shirts or pants for the little ones, hats, gloves, bug spray and even snacks! If your session is in the summer, don’t be afraid to bring a cooler with drinks and snacks to keep your family hydrated and cool.

Tip 4 — Schedule your session around your little one’s nap time. Although I love photographing just before sunset or right after sunrise, I completely understand that that may not work for your little ones. Some of my clients find the most success scheduling a session for an hour or two after their little ones wake up from their mid-day nap. You know your baby best — so if you think your littles will do better mid-day and not dinner time, then by all means, lets photograph mid-day!

Tip 5 — Play together and have fun! Your kiddos will have the biggest smiles on their faces when they’re playing and making memories with you.

Tamara Jaros Photography // Wedding, Lifestyle Newborn + Family Photographer
On-Location Photography Based out of Crystal Lake, Illinois

Hello and welcome!
I’m a natural light photographer specializing in Family & Newborn Photography as well as weddings.
To inquire about a portrait session with me, please email tamara@tjarosphotography.com or follow the contact button at the top of this website. Thank you for visiting my blog! Can’t wait to work with you!

Crystal Lake, IL Newborn Photographer | Crystal Lake, IL Family Photographer
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McHenry County, IL Family Photographer