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Photographer in Dickinson ND

TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT PHOTOSHOOT

Saturday, November 11, 2023 | By: Saracino Photography

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How to feel your very best in front of the camera
So … you’ve booked a photoshoot, but you’re stressing out. You don’t know how to “smile for the camera,” you’re not quite sure what to do with your hands, and you just feel awkward when confronted with a camera lens.
We get it, we’ve been there, but things don’t have to be this way! Follow our foolproof tips and you’ll ready to roll with a successful photoshoot.

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Family Maternity Session

1. Be yourself!
In the digital age we live in, gorgeous images are everywhere. We love how easy it is to find inspiration for, well, everything, but while it can feel tempting to mimic your
favourite Instagram influencer’s feed during your shoot, the best photos will happen when you are simply being yourself!
If you feel tempted to find inspiration elsewhere, use it as a loose guide and make your own shining personalities the stars of the shoot.

 

2. Dress to feel good
A simple rule of thumb for what to wear? What makes you feel good will make you look good. And we’re not talking about donning sky-high heels if that isn’t normally your thing. Choose an outfit that you feel comfortable in (fits well, appropriate for the climate, etc.), but also one that makes you feel good (hello, instant confidence boost).
If you feel good, you won’t have anything to worry about during your shoot — instead, you’ll simply enjoy the experience!

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Be Yourself

3. Let the kids be kids
Planning a photo shoot with kids can feel like it’s extra stressful with so many what-ifs. What if the kids aren’t in a good mood? What if they’re tired or cranky or don’t vibe with the photographer? Try to time your photo shoot so the kids are well-rested and well-fed, and after that, relax! The kids are going to have a blast. They’ll run, they’ll play, they’ll get loved on by you,
and we promise you will absolutely cherish these photos capturing your family exactly as you are.


4. Trust your photographer!
Here’s something you may not realize: your photographer has your back. We want you to feel amazing, to look amazing, and to love your photos long after the photo shoot is over. We will guide you. When you’re not sure what to do with your hands, we will totally help you. We will even tell you if you have lipstick on your teeth! We are seriously
your #1 fan during your photo shoot, so trust us and relax knowing that we want you to look and feel incredible.

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Let Kids be Kids

5. Focus on each other, not the camera
We know it’s tempting to stare straight into the camera, but your photo shoot experience is about you and your relationships, so forget about the camera, relax, and view it as a time to enjoy each other (or yourself, if you’re flying solo). Don’t worry — we’ll capture that beautiful smile for your mom, but for the most part, you’ll
look your best if you look like you are naturally interacting with and enjoying the people around you and the gorgeous destination you’re in. And the best way to look like you’re enjoying something is to actually enjoy it!


6. Think about your outfits. Coordinating is key.  For instance, you don’t want to wear a blue dress and have your fiancé wear a blue shirt and jeans for your engagement photos. Instead, wear colors or patterns that complement each other. So have him wear a yellow button down and jeans when you wear the blue dress. Or he can wear the blue shirt and jeans and you can wear a light pink dress with blue polka dots.
If fashion isn’t your forte, ask your photographer for recommendations! We’re always happy to help.

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Focus on each other

7. Make sure everyone is rested and well-fed! This applies more to kids, although I will say that my husband can get a little grumpy when he’s hungry 😉 In all seriousness, though, happy kids photograph better than kids throwing a tantrum because they want a snack.
I know there’s only so much you can do to appease your children in these situations, but starting off on the right foot certainly won’t hurt!

8. We recommend that you start preparing your kids in advance. A few days before the photo shoot, start talking to your children and let them know what to expect:
*Tell them where the photo shoot will take place
*Let them know how long the family session will last
*Explain what is expected of them during the photo shoot
Most importantly, try to build up your family photo session as a fun event that your kids will look forward to. Talk about ways in which they can be creative and have fun with the pictures. In addition, you may want to consider offering them a treat, such as a trip to their favorite ice cream shop or a special activity, that you’ll do as a family following the photo shoot.
This will give them an incentive to be on their best behavior while you’re taking pictures.

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Make sure everyone is well rested

9. We all love our dogs, and they make a great addition to your family portrait. However, there are some things you need to do to ensure your pet doesn’t derail the photo shoot:
*Have a friend come to monitor the dog when it’s not part of the pictures
*Bring treats and toys to help ensure your dog cooperates
If your dog is hyper and doesn’t follow commands well, you may want to consider leaving it home.


10. You’ll have a lot of work to do getting your kids ready for the photo shoot. Often, this can take longer than you anticipate. Make sure you’re all dressed, have your hair styled and your makeup applied before you help your kids get ready. This will reduce your stress level before the family photo session and ensure you look your absolute best.

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Know if your dog will do well for a photoshoot

In closing, the best advice we can give you is relax and let the magic happen, don't stress if one of the kids are having a bad day, it can change in an instant and if it doesn't some of the greatest photos the subject is not smiling.

Just enjoy the day! 

Photographer in Dickinson ND

Don't worry about the smiles

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