mom finds my work, mom books the session, and mom prepares the family for portrait session day with my studio. And usually, 9 times of 10, dad is usually brought along sometimes because he really wants to be there but oftentimes it’s to make his wife and family happy. Now, this isn’t always the case. I’ve had tons of families where dad is so beyond excited to be part of the experience. And as a photographer, it’s my job to make sure everyone is comfortable and happy being part of the HW portrait experience. Since I notice that dads are usually more quiet and uncomfortable at family photo sessions, I decided to create a little guide to help dad relax on portrait day. For all the families that want to help your partner relax,
Here are three easy tips for helping your dad’s to relax during your family sessions!
Chat ’em up!
Okay, this sounds easy right? But it’s really important. I immediately start talking to Dad during my sessions. For example, I might ask him where he works or how his weekend was with the kids. I basically let him know I understand that this may not be his idea of a fun Saturday night but assure him it will be easy, quick, and stress-free. Simply talking directly to Dad will allow him to realize that you are on his side and not just there for mom.
In the weeks leading up to the session, I recommend that moms share the style guide, blog posts and little details that our studio sends in our welcome packets to their partners. Sharing the details of the studio experience only helps get to know me, my team and how much we care about being your families go-to family photographer year after year. As a relationship-based portrait studio, I am in this niche field of family photography to share a connection with others, to document real life stories and create art around the themes of joy, childhood and family bonds. I don’t consider myself or my studio’s mission as a shoot-and-burn photography studio. Rather, it is an experience. Letting your partner in on these aspects, instead of it being a one-and-done photo shoot, I find helps get dads more excited for when the day finally arrives.
Talk about your Expectations
I always tell my families at the beginning of my session to not look at me unless I directly tell them to. If you’re a mom reading this, tell your hubs that the entire focus on the session is going to be playing, interacting and loving on you and your kids. I often find that dads look stiff, serious and uncomfortable because they are trying to formally smile at my camera, but please don’t look at me. Look at your beautiful wife, chat with your kids while I’m quickly scoping out the light and quickly shooting away.This immediately helps dad to relax. My sessions are fast, and even when you book my studio’s more custom 90-minute Signature Session, poses are captured quickly and the time flies by.
Encourage him to play
While I always manage to get a ton of traditional “Christmas card” images of your family, my favorite images are of those in motion. You and your family will feel so much more comfortable when you are doing something. Instead of smiling forcefully at my lens, throw your little one in the air, spin them around, tickle and whisper a secret in their ear. Grab your wife and tell her how beautiful she looks. Nuzzle her neck and forget that I’m there. Chase your kids and sing to them, play peek-a-boo, blow some bubbles at them – be playful! And have fun. Act like you would if you were playing with your family in the living room and kiss your wife like you would at home.
My family and newborn portrait experience is not just a typical photo-shoot. While I love a few standard smile shots, I want you to play and joyfully spend time with your family while I’m capturing those precious timeless moments that you’ll treasure for years and years. I don’t require anything, but I do ask that you have fun, relax and enjoy a truly custom portrait experience.
I’m so excited to photograph you!
Read This if Dad Isn’t Too Excited About Your Upcoming Family Photo Session
Free-spirit, author, astrocartographer and all around creative in love with documenting the simple joys of life. I am passionate about noticing light and truth around me and reflecting it back to others.
Book a session with a certified Locational Astrologer for peace of mind, knowing you're receiving guidance from a qualified astrologer.
My team offers more than your "average" reading - you'll find offerings ranging from Solar Returns to Ancestral Astrocartography readings, Business Astrology readings, Astrobranding, and more!
Treat yourself to a magical astrocartography reading (you know, the one you've been dying to book), below.
A gorgeously designed hardcover coffee table book with Helena's photographs from around the globe, this practical how-to guide includes everything needed to live a slow, simplified life. For anyone who's ever felt the pressure to do more, be more, achieve more and feels the desire to let go of the busy go-go-go energy of a time we're living in, this book is for you. Free yourself by living slow.
free yourself
Lead from Your Soul & Live Slow
From Me To You
Get my (Travel) Postcards.
Join my free email newsletter to receive encouragement, astrocartography tips and inspiration from my travels on the road.