When I first meet with clients one of the first things people usually say is, “We are so awkward in photos”. I always tell them that everyone feels that way and that it is my job to help clients feel comfortable in front of the camera! The goal is not perfection. The goal is connection and having fun, while making memories along the way. At the end, I hope you end up with photos that feel like YOU!
While I like to get a mix of both posed images where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling, getting more natural photos are important too.
Here are some tips that will help make your photos feel more candid:
First of all, people want advice on what to wear. I have put together a blog post in the past with suggestions and examples. Check that out here: What should I wear for my photo session? – Jen Honeycutt Photography The main thing is to not be too matchy-matchy, but wear clothes that make you feel good in them! If you feel uncomfortable in your outfit, it will show. Try on your clothes first to make sure everything fits the way you want it to.
Second, I will guide you into poses that get you moving and interacting with each other. Movement adds dimension to your photos. Instead of standing still, moving helps you feel less stiff and more comfortable. Sometimes I will ask you to walk slowly towards or away from me. Or I might ask you to cuddle together and give a big family hug. We will play and have fun!
Let the kids be kids for these 45-60 minutes. Try not to yell or threaten them with acting perfectly. I used to be a schoolteacher so I can handle a bit of naughtiness. Plus, I don’t want your child to hate pictures! I want them to have relaxed smiles and remember that “Ms. Jen was fun!”
Finally, choose a location that feels like you. I give you my Location Guide with ideas of places to meet at, but I am also open to meeting at your home or a new spot. Some people really want water in their photos. Others, want a mountain backdrop. Colorado has a lot of great variety so I’m sure we can find a place that fits your vision!
In the end, you may still feel slightly self-conscious here and there while a stranger takes your picture, but overall, I hope that these tips help so that we can create beautiful images for you to cherish forever! Connection = emotion. I hope that you will always FEEL these images when you look back on them.
So let go of getting the “perfect” shot and focus on being in the moment with your loved ones! Let me do all the work!
