Planning for a Great Family Picture

Thought about family photos this year yet?

While we most likely have all had more time with our children than we had anticipated this year, we may not have thought much about how they have grown and changed through the course of it.

Because our mental space has been filled up with the "extras" of pandemic and election concerns, I thought you might appreciate a little nudge that this might be a good time to think about a family picture.

Here are a few questions to help you make a great plan for family pictures this year:

• Color theme?
  • some solids
  • mix in a few touches of patterns to tie colors together
• Pose considerations
  • try to have everyone touching at least one other person (i.e. hand on a shoulder, etc.)
  • for older kids, remind them that if it bends, to bend it a little (elbows, knees, etc) so they don't appear stiff
  • when in doubt, lay on your tummies and pile the kids on top (hides bigger waistlines and also gets everyone really close in for the picture)
  • offer rewards for kids who cooperate with good attitudes during the session (remember to communicate them ahead of time to avoid a bribe if possible.)
• Where will it be taken and when?
  • the "golden" hour for best lighting
  • when children are well fed and rested
  • with snacks, drinks, bottle, wet wipes, and hairbrush in tow if you have little ones
  • on a day with margins to lower the stress of it
• Who will take them?
  • use a tripod?
  • self timer? (if kids are older)
  • trade off with a friend?
  • professional photographer?
• How do you plan to use the pictures?
  • ordering cards?
  • send an email?
  • social media post?

Maybe if you normally send out a family update, this might be a good year to skip? :) Give lots of grace and simplify.

Prepare your kids ahead of time by talking about the plans, the rewards, and how much fun it is going to be.

Then just try to take a deep breath and pack a sense of humor and grace as you go.

What is YOUR best tip or hack to get a great family picture?