It’s normal to lose yourself in long summer days with delicious foods and unlimited family time, but before you know it, you will be rushing around in the fall for your family pictures. Within a few weeks, you find yourself desperately searching for photographers, locations, inspiration, color schemes, and suitable clothing for your family. When rushed, you lose control over the small factors that build authentic, natural, and beautiful family pictures. Time tends to always slip from us- especially when we think we have more than we do. So here are my 5 best tips for making the most of your family photos. 

Tip 1: Timing

It is never too early to begin planning family pictures. Prepping ahead of time will cause far more ease than rushing at the last minute. Think about what season you would like as a background. Do the warm browns and oranges of fall suit your family? Maybe the vibrant colors of springtime. If you have the time to choose, these are questions you can ask yourself—plan for what season you would like to capture with your family. Time is only your best friend when you have a plethora of it! This is my utmost number one tip when planning family pictures!

Tip 2: Style

Now onto the next big question… What are you going to wear? You will realize that season and wardrobe play a significant role in the details of your family pictures. After choosing a season, begin to find pieces that not only make sense to the season but create a family photo that stands out and shows your thought and intention! My biggest tip is to identify your color palette. Neutrals? Browns? Whites? Bold colors? Even cool prints! Everyone has a preference as to what color scheme fits their overall vibe. I made a Pinterest board full of family pictures for those looking for clothing and color coordination inspiration! 

Tip 3: Location

Another great and intentional decision could be the location of the family pictures. I enjoy working with clients who have a special bond with their atmosphere. It allows the family to be comfortable because they are in their element. A great example could be a family that enjoys spending time by the beach. The beach is where they may have felt safe and most happy together. When you find a place that makes you and your family feel comfortable, you allow for the most beautiful and authentic photoshoot! Not to mention, your family will have a great chance to show personality when entirely comfortable. Now ask yourself: What time of day does this place see my desired sunlight? Is there a particular season that I would like to capture? These small questions really do change the lighting and mood of the family photos. 

My Top 4 Favorite Locations for Family Pictures

Laguna Beach

If you want dynamic views and the bluest of blue water, go to Treasure Island or Table Rock Beach!

Open Fields 

Some of my favorite open fields to shoot at are Irvine Regional Park and Rancho Santa Margarita! The areas sparkle at sunset and fill with flowers in the springtime.

Clients Homes

This option is perfect for those with newborns! It is also an excellent idea for those with children who are more comfortable in a familiar environment- they document the authentic lifestyle of the family, which is unique!

Mission San Juan Cpistrano

This location has a fantastic architecture for a more elevated and formal family look!

Tip 4: Budget 

Budgets for family pictures can be a pain, especially when you find the photographer of your dreams, but they may be a little out of your price range. I’m a big believer in the “you get what you pay for” rule. Usually, the best photographers may be more on the expensive side, but your pictures will turn out better than you could have imagined! When following my first tip of allowing yourself time, you can compare prices and photographers- whereas if you were in a time crunch… then you get what you get rule falls into place. High-quality pictures are always worth the investment as they will give you photos that last a lifetime!

Tip 5: Coordination

Coordination applies not only to the wardrobe but also to timing, snacks and diaper bags, and any preparation before the family pictures. Create a checklist of what is needed for the day of the shoot. Are snacks made for the ones that may get hungry halfway through (There is a 50/50 chance that it’s either the husband or the infant)? Pack accordingly. I always advise packing extra diapers and a water bottle. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready for the family pictures. We have to prepare for the moments in between these shots as well. Remember, when everyone is comfortable (that can mean clean diapers, full bellies, and a recognizable location), the photos will come out the absolute best! 

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