Top tips for parents booking a professional photo shoot.

I often get asked what to do what not to do when preparing the family for a professional photo shoot. Below I have listed a series of tips to help your session go smoothly.

* Never tell young children that they are going to have their photographs taken. Its best to arrive at the studio without making it a big occasion.

Why?  When you initially tell them of course they get very excited,  but once they arrive at the studio they soon realise that its not quite like having Mummy & Daddy taking them.  

* Things you should try to avoid saying at the shoot.  These are genuine comments parents make.

" Don't worry it will not hurt"

" Don't be scared mummy's here"

"She is very shy,  does not like strangers"

"Smile at the man"

"She normally loves having her photographs taken,  I don't know what's wrong with her today"

"If you are good daddy will get you some sweets"

A good photographer will always introduce themselves by first name,  this should be relayed back to the child,  otherwise parents will say,  "Its O.K do as the man tells you" this again worries the child.

*Clothing.  Try to keep this to one change as young children, especially babies do not like getting dressed and undressed too many times.

The most important part about booking a successful shoot is to pick the best time for your youngest child. Usually after a nap and when baby has been fed etc.  If you do this 90% of the time the session will be quite easy for the whole family!  Avoid making bookings after school as younger children can be very hyper or just too tired to co-operate,  weekend sessions or in the holidays are usually best.

Parents,  try to keep calm yourself and be prepared.  If you are anxious and stressed your children will pick this up instantly.

These are just a few tips to help you have a more enjoyable experience,  after all having your photographs taken is meant to be fun!  If you need any more advice please call the studio,  even if you are booking another studio.

Comments

[Rich Pizzuti]

Nice piece! You have given parents a nice list of natural/instinctual phrases to avoid to make a child's photo shoot run smoothly.

I find that within the first 10 minutes, you know how the shoots going to go, one way or the other.

Thanks for the post!