What Actually Happens at a Family Photo Session?

I think one of the biggest reasons families put off scheduling pictures is that they're imagining everything that could go wrong. The kids won't cooperate, someone will complain about their outfit, Dad will be checking his watch, and by the time everyone gets to the session, Mom will be wondering why she thought this was a good idea in the first place. Sound familiar?

I've been photographing families around Humboldt, Iowa, for years, and I can tell you that I've worked with just about every personality you can imagine. I've met shy toddlers, energetic preschoolers, teenagers who would rather be anywhere else, and dads who have made it very clear that family pictures weren't their idea. None of that worries me! I know that getting everyone dressed and out the door is sometimes the hardest part of the whole experience, which is why I try to make everything that happens afterward as easy as possible.

We actually do quite a bit of planning before I ever pick up my camera. I'll help you figure out what everyone should wear, and we'll choose a location that works well for your family. You don't have to spend hours searching Pinterest for ideas or worrying about whether everyone's outfits match perfectly. I can help you put things together so your photographs look beautiful while everyone still feels comfortable.

I also know that families have busy schedules, especially when kids are involved. Between school, sports, activities, and work, finding a time when everyone is available can feel like a challenge. We'll talk through those details ahead of time so you know what to expect and can arrive feeling prepared.

This might be the question I hear most often, and I wish parents knew how little it bothers me when kids act like kids. Some children need a few minutes to warm up, while others are ready to tell me their entire life story before I've even taken the first photograph. I love getting to know their personalities, and I don't expect them to stand perfectly still and smile on command for an entire session.

We'll take a combination of photographs with everyone looking at the camera and some that capture the way your family naturally interacts. I'll give you direction throughout the session, so you're never left wondering what to do with your hands or where everyone should stand. If someone needs a little break or a chance to regroup, that's perfectly fine, too. I've learned that a little patience and a good sense of humor go a long way when photographing families.

And parents, you don't have to spend the entire session reminding your kids to smile! I know it's tempting, especially when you've put time and money into getting everyone there, but I want you to enjoy being with your family. Let me worry about getting the photographs.

Once we've finished photographing your family, I'll help you choose the images you love and decide how you'd like to enjoy them in your home. This is a part of the experience I've become especially passionate about because I want my clients to actually do something with their photographs.

My family sessions include the purchase of printed artwork or albums, and I'll guide you through those options so you can choose pieces that make sense for your family. Maybe you've been wanting to update the photographs hanging in your living room, or perhaps you'd love an album that your kids can flip through whenever they want. We'll figure out what works best together, and you won't have to spend months trying to decide what to print.

I know family pictures might not be at the top of everyone's list of favorite activities, especially if you've had a stressful experience with them before. But I really do want you to leave your session thinking that it was easier than you expected. I want your kids to feel comfortable, your spouse to realize it wasn't so bad after all, and you to have photographs you're excited to see.

You don't need perfectly behaved children or a family that loves being in front of the camera. You just need to show up, spend a little time together, and let me take care of the rest.

If you've been putting off family pictures because you're worried about how everyone will do, I'd love to help you plan a session. I'm a family photographer serving Humboldt, Fort Dodge, and the surrounding North Central Iowa communities, and I'd be happy to help you get some updated family photographs on your walls!

Let's get your family session scheduled!