How to prep and plan for a successful photoshoot with your kids & dog - Leah's family
There is so much that goes into pulling a family photoshoot together, but you don’t have to be as organised as Simone Anderson or Marie Kondo to have it all together and get the family portraits on the wall that you dream of.
There is so much to take into consideration, but you don’t have to feel overwhelmed. With a bit of planning, your photoshoot is going to be so fun.
Before I give you the tips I tell my clients before a photoshoot, I asked Leah to weigh in on her experience and what she’d suggest for other mums and families getting ready for their own photoshoot.
Leah says:
Take a few changes of clothes for everyone that all work with each other. Just in case of accidents or if someone makes a spill on the first outfit.
Food can help keep little ones calm. Treats for the furbabies can help with keeping their attention to the camera too.
Go early if you can, so that you aren't stressed when you arrive. We were there half hour early so we're able to get coffees before heading over.
Yellow Lab Photographer tips to plan a successful photoshoot with kids and / or dog
For the kid(s):
Bring their own snacks they love, favourite toy and extra clothes.
For your dog(s):
Some people with high energy dogs, like to walk their doggos before the photoshoot.
Bring their favourite toy and high reward treats to get their attention.
Brush your doggy the night before / morning of if you have time and clean sleep out of his/her eyes.
CLOTHING
Stay away from red.
No cartoon/ superhero characters. If your kids, refuse, bribe them ;-)
Read here for a professional stylist’s ideas on what to wear.
https://yellowlab.co.nz/blog/whattowearforyourphotoshootwithfamilydog?rq=what%20to%20wear
Day before your shoot, make sure your outfits are ironed - it can be stressful getting a family, or just you and your dog, somewhere on time. Eliminate stress and get it ready at the latest the day before.
Bring 1 to 2 gorgeous outfits that you feel special and beautiful in.
Other things that work well are jean jackets, black lace top, neutral colors. If you are unsure, put whatever you think out and I will advise once we are together.
Also, something slightly more casual for the second bit of the on location shoot. <---- if you'd like to change but not necessary.
Other things to think about & remember
Hair - When was the last time you had your roots done? Is this something you'd like to have done a little while before your photoshoot so your hair is in tip top shape? A day old haircut on men and boys look too new in photographs. Rather send them for a cut a week/ maybe two before.
Does your doggy get groomed? You want him/her to be in tip top shape when she’s in the portraits. I’ve met a lot of people who don’t like what their doggies look like right after a groom, but rather 2 weeks after. It can be different for you.
Nails - Make sure everyone's nails are tidy. A fresh coat of paint always looks great on mom. Be sure to bring your sentimental or favourite jewellery so you are photographed with it.
Allow extra time in the morning for hair and makeup (excluding dad of course) so everyone look their best. IF you’re doing your own. Hair and makeup is available, but enquire before and at time of booking your shoot date.
A family photoshoot with pets is a full house. But it's always so fun. I'm a mom myself so know that there might be times during your shoot that it feels a little coo-koo ;-) That's totally normal for family portrait shoots with young kids AND animals. Whats important is that we have a lot of patience -your photographs are going to be so special to you. Just a few shoots ago, I had my camera in my right hand, sitting on the floor, while blowing bubbles with my left hand - true story :-D I’m talking about Mel, Andy, Esme and Malt :-D It’s so rewarding to create these photographs for you.
Pack extra confidence. The number one thing that translates brilliantly into photographs (and real life too!), is confidence. Bring your confidence A-game, even if you fake it a little, stand nice and straight with good posture. You’re going to rock your photoshoot even if it’s your and your family’s first one.
Relax - Don't worry much about being in front of the camera. I'll guide you into different poses and will make suggestions to make amazing family and dog portraits for you. We are going to have a great time. Don't worry about spills or when your dog jumps on the couch. Most doggies do as soon as they get here. I won't be doing this if I didn't love dogs and their people.
Now that you know how to prep for your own family portrait photo shoot, these are some of my favourite photographs from this dog and family photo session
I can’t wait to see the artmount once it’s made. Leah chose the one of Violet on grey (without flowers) for their A2 artwork.
See some of the outtakes in their video.
Dad Jonathan didn’t make it to the photo reveal, so here is Isla showing her dad Jonathan their video. So cute!
Love, Salome
If you think you would like to have a similar kind of photoshoot experience with your dog and / family, read more here of what a pet and family photography experience with Yellow Lab is like. Hair and makeup is available if you’d like to be pampered and feel your best in the photographs.
If you’re in Auckland, it is the perfect gift for her for Mothers day, Valentines, birthday or to treat yourself and your family & furry best friend.