How to prepare for your family photography session in Dorset

Getting your family together to capture some special memories that you will treasure for many years to come is one of the most valuable things that you will ever do. Memories become more and more precious as the years go on, and capturing your growing family is something that you will never ever regret.

I love going out and about all across Dorset meeting families to capture such special memories for them and I would love to do this for your family too. Extended families are also more than welcome, family generation photography sessions are something that I do a lot over the summer months.

Choosing a location for your family photography session

It is completely your decision where you would like to meet in Dorset for your family photography session. Think about what type of background you would like in your photos. What would suit your family better? Where do you like to go together? Are you a beach family, or do you prefer the countryside? Or maybe you prefer something a bit more urban.

The main types of outdoor photography sessions that I usually do are either on the beach or in the forest.

I have favourite locations across Dorset that I am happy to recommend but I am also happy to meet you at any other place that is special to your family. 

Choosing the time of day for your family photography session

If your photography session is taking place during the summer months, the best time is either early evening (2 hours before sunset) or first thing in the morning when the light is at its best. When you book in we can discuss this to work around your family.

If your photography session is taking place during the autumn we can be more flexible with times.

Where possible, it is always advisable to work around your little ones naps so that they are happy during the photography session.

Choosing clothing for your family photography session

I like to keep my photography sessions as natural as possible so it really does not matter to me what you wear.

It is up to you if you want to think about what clothing you think will go well with your chosen location, or if you prefer to simply wear something that represents what your family usually wears. 

If you would like to you can have a look through some of the many family photographs that I have taken over the years. This will give you an idea of how different colours look in different locations.

If you would like some recommendations, neutral, pastel colours, or blues with no bold logos or text look great on the beach.
For the forest you can add in some more patterns and bolder colours. 

If matching clothing are important to you, with the linen or bamboo package there is time for outfit changes if you would like to do so.

I might ask you to take little shoes off on the beach to suit the location and also because I love baby feet!

Preparing the children for your family photography session

Depending on the age of your children, it is a good idea to tell them about what will happen when we meet.
Tell them my name beforehand, and I will talk to them and I like to show them my camera and what it does. Most children will be unfamiliar with cameras as they are used to most people having just phones now.

We will spend some time taking some family photographs together, and then usually some of the children on their own. If you have booked the linen or bamboo package there should also be time to capture some natural photos of the children playing. 

They will enjoy looking through the photo gallery with you at home after your session and will love looking at the printed photos when you put them up on your walls or in frames too. You will be creating such special memories for them which will only grow in value over time. Watching themselves grow up is a very important part of learning about who they are. 

How to find out more about my family photography sessions

You might also like to read another recent family photography blog that I have written here:
What to expect at your family photography session in Dorset (samanthaprewettphotography.co.uk)

I would love to hear from you to capture your beautiful growing family.
Please visit my family photography page on my website for more information, or request a booking information pack.