3 Tips For Your Family Session – Savannah Family Photographer

I have had the pleasure of photographing the Snayd family for the last few years! Joel and Erika are the owners of Rethink Design Studio, an incredible interior design company. Their designs are modern while maintaining the historic details of the home. Some of their designs include Mirabelle Café and Suites, as well as the Smith Brothers Butcher Shop.

One of the first sessions I did for the Snayd family was in 2013, when I photographed Joel’s moms 70^th birthday when Rye was just a few months old. I got to be a part of Rye’s 1^st birthday in September 2013, where he had the coolest Camp Rye theme (complete with a handmade tent!) This year, I got to photograph their Christmas family pictures! We started in Washington Square, right next to The Brice Hotel. We eventually made our way down to River Street, for some beautiful river views.

The Snayd family are so fashionable, and know how to dress for their family sessions! Before a family session, I often get asked what they should wear, and what to expect! So I have made my top 3 tips for Family Sessions!

3 Tips For Your Family Session

1. Coordinate Outfits

When planning on what everyone should wear to the family session, try to keep everyone coordinated. It can be with a common color, or with complementing colors. Everyone does not have to match perfectly, in fact, it is better when everyone compliments each other! Some correlating colors include soft colors (like light blue, gray, blush) or a warm color palette (brown, orange, burgundy and khaki). Also, keep in mind the colors of your home. Since these will be placed around your home, choose a color palette that would work well with your home design!

When it comes to prints, keep them subtle. I love how Erika chose a soft floral in her top, with a beige and gold skirt. It added a pop of metallic, while still coordinating with Joel and Rye! I always recommend soft and flowy fabrics for mom, so we can get some great movement in the pictures.

2. Keep Everyone Comfortable

When it comes to outfits and location, it’s best to keep the family comfortable! If you have a daughter that does not like to wear dresses, then don’t force her to wear one! If she is uncomfortable, it will show. Happy kids make happy photos! Also, wear clothing for the weather. If it is fall or winter and is chilly, wear cozy sweaters and boots.

3. Don’t worry about energetic kids!

Parents often contact me worried that their kids will misbehave or have too much energy during the shoot. They are worried that they will not get any good shots. But have no fear! We always get great photos, even if the kids are running around. The shoot is more about capturing the way your family is in that moment, then the one photo where everyone is looking at the camera. It is about interaction! I am used to photographing rambunctious kids, so I know what to expect, and how to get those perfect moments.