2022

Mission San Juan Capistrano is such a gem in Orange County. What an incredible historical landmark with beautiful grounds full of interesting backdrops. I’m always excited when my clients choose this as their annual location for family photos.

This family is crazy photogenic… I mean have you seen a more beautiful group of people?? 🙂 I love getting to see them every year and so grateful they trust me with their cherished family memories.

Thanks Chatterton Family!

Read on for a list of my Do’s and Don’ts for Family Portraits!

The annual family photo shoot is such an important tradition! Reach out to get yours on the schedule before it’s too late!

MY LIST OF DO’S AND DON’TS FOR FAMILY PORTRAIT SESSIONS!

Family photoshoots are a wonderful way to capture and preserve precious moments with your loved ones. However, to ensure that your family photos are a true reflection of your bond and personality, it’s essential to follow some dos and don’ts. As an experienced Orange County family photographer, I’m here to provide you with valuable insights to make your family photoshoot a success. In this blog post, we’ll share professional tips and advice!

The Dos of a Successful Family Photoshoot

**1. Plan Ahead:

• Do: Plan your photoshoot well in advance, including choosing the location, date, and time that works best for your family’s schedule.

**2. Coordinate Outfits:

• Do: Coordinate your family’s outfits, but avoid overly matching. Choose complementary colors and styles that reflect your family’s personality.

**3. Timing Matters:

• Do: Schedule your photoshoot during the “golden hour,” which is the hour before sunset. The soft, warm light during this time creates beautiful and flattering portraits.

**4. Communicate Expectations:

• Do: Communicate your expectations and ideas with your photographer beforehand. Discuss any specific shots or themes you have in mind.

**5. Relax and Have Fun:

• Do: Relax and enjoy the process. The best family photos are often the candid moments when everyone is at ease and having fun.

**6. Engage with Each Other:

• Do: Interact and engage with your family members during the photoshoot. Hug, play, and share genuine moments to capture authentic expressions.

**7. Trust Your Photographer:

• Do: Trust the expertise of your Orange County family photographer. They have the skills and experience to capture beautiful images, so relax and let them work their magic.

The Don’ts to Avoid Common Pitfalls

**1. Don’t Overplan:

• Don’t: While planning is important, avoid overplanning every detail. Allow for spontaneity and natural interactions.

**2. Don’t Stress About Perfection:

• Don’t: Don’t obsess over perfection. Some of the most memorable family photos are imperfect and full of character.

**3. Don’t Rush:

• Don’t: Avoid rushing through your photoshoot. Allow enough time for breaks, especially if you have young children or pets.

**4. Don’t Force Smiles:

• Don’t: Don’t force smiles or poses. Genuine expressions and interactions create more meaningful photos.

**5. Don’t Forget About Comfort:

• Don’t: Ensure everyone is comfortable. Uncomfortable clothing or extreme weather conditions can lead to unhappy family members.

**6. Don’t Look at the Camera Constantly:

• Don’t: While it’s essential to capture a few shots where everyone is looking at the camera, don’t make it the sole focus. Candid moments often tell a better story.

**7. Don’t Be Afraid of Fun Props:

• Don’t: Consider incorporating fun props or activities during your photoshoot to add personality and uniqueness to your images.

Conclusion

A family photoshoot should be an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone involved. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your family photos are not only beautiful but also a true reflection of your family’s love and connection.

If you’re looking for an experienced Orange County family photographer who can capture the essence of your family, please contact Jennifer Imus Photography. We’re dedicated to creating beautiful family portraits that you’ll treasure for years to come.