10/05/2025
SHARMEL LEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL FALL FAMILY PHOTO SESSION
It is Fall time, which is my favorite time of year; with the smell of pine and wood smoke in the air. This means it is the perfect time for a family photo session so that you have the best photos.
1. Wardrobe For Your Photo Session
A wardrobe is key to a photo session and it should be viewed as an important investment in your session. I always suggest neutral, some mild pops of color, textures, and to be COMFORTABLE. I love whites, grays, browns, pops of mild color, and simplicity when it comes to wardrobe selection. Try to avoid neon colors, or solid orange, bright red, or bright teal-colored clothing as it tends to leave a color cast that reflects onto your skin. You also do not want your family to be too matchy-matchy, but you will want to coordinate. Think about dressing with your location in mind and be sure that your clothing represents YOU and your family as honestly as possible. As always, before your family photo session feel free to send me photos and ideas and I will be happy to give you wardrobe advice.
2. Sleep
Get your beauty rest! I can’t stress this enough. Make it a goal the night before your photo session to be in bed half an hour early. This is a tip for parents just as much as it is for the kids. Telling yourself you will be in bed early will help you get to bed on time since we all know getting to bed early is impossible when you have kids or pets.
3. Check in to calm your nerves
I always message my clients on the morning of their family photo session to let them know that I’ve checked the weather and that we are good to go. We will confirm the final destination of choice and I will send you directions to the destination to make it as easy as possible for you. Relax, this will be fun.
4. Eat Before, Not After
It’s easy to skip a meal to save time, but do not do it! Empty tummies make cranky families. Consider eating at home, then change into your outfits before heading to your photo session.
5. Pro Hair and Makeup
This is not a requirement, but a suggestion for moms. Consider booking yourself an appointment for professional hair and makeup before your family photo session, not only to make your photos look even more stunning, but also because you deserve it! If you pamper yourself, I promise you will feel more relaxed and confident for your session.
6. Don't be late
Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get to your photo session on time. I cannot stress this enough! I schedule my outdoor sessions three hours prior to sunset to be sure we have the perfect creamy light for your photos and to allow for extra photos. If you are late, we will run out of light which will cut your photo session short. Sadly, I cannot control when the sun sets! I suggest leaving plenty of time for things like getting yourself and all the kids ready, time for ironing, travel time, and finding a parking spot.
7. Trust Your Photographer
Relax and have fun! Easier said than done right? You’ve been waiting so long to have family photos taken and you just want them to be perfect. However, if you’re stressed out, you will be able to tell in your photos. Try to let go and remember that you hired a pro and your photographer will get you those gorgeous family photos. Trust me!
Send a message to learn more
