Arizona Family Photographer: How to Have Fun at Your Family Photo Session
Meet the Fritzmillers! This was the second time in one week that I had the opportunity to photograph mom, and local author GF Miller, the first time to photograph the whole family. The Fritzmillers are so incredibly fun and have an “up for anything” attitude that I, personally, love to work with. We had a beautiful night for our session albeit a little toasty at 94 degrees (at sunset no less). But the sun, wow did she set in style basking us in an incredible golden glow.
Location, location, location…
This shoot was located at one of my favorite spots in Phoenix, Papago Park. I absolutely love this park and visit it often for my outdoor sessions. Most seasons there are water features to stand near, walking trails, boulders for backdrops, cacti and flowering bushes, benches and bridges. So, lots of things to work with.
Take a peek into this family session and scroll down to read five tips on how to have fun at your family photoshoot!
5 Tips on How to Have a Fun Family Photo Session
Hands down the most IMPORTANT thing to remember during your family photoshoot is to ENJOY your time with one another. Emotions and connection show in photographs. If you are truly having a fun and enjoyable time with one another I will capture that. Upon arriving, I always remind the family to relax, breathe, and and that they don’t have to worry about being awkward because I will be more than enough for the both of us!!
Laugh, tickle, tell stories, wrestle, toss your kids in the air, tip them upside down, make silly faces, twirl, and dance. These are just a FEW of the fun activities I coax you into to make your family session fun.
Movement is always welcome! I love when parents take walks and cuddle which allows me to capture emotional, candid photos of you and your family. This allows your kids to explore which always helps them loosen up and have fun during sessions.
Kids will be kids, children are unique and special in their own ways, and it's important to let them be themselves! Whether they're shy or outgoing, allow them to express their personalities and behaviors. During your family photo session, let the me take the lead and guide your child, following their prompts. When you focus on interacting with your child instead of directing their actions, they will feel more relaxed and happy. And that positive energy will show in your portraits, making them even more special and memorable!
Be OK with the unexpected. Sometimes, despite all the planning, things might not go as smoothly as we hope. If the kids are having an off day or not feeling cooperative, don't worry! Take a deep breath and trust ME! I know how to capture the beauty in even the most unexpected moments. So instead of getting anxious and giving commands, just relax and let me do my thing. You'll be surprised by the end result…I promise!
The Fritzmillers
This is what I want to say about the Fritzmiller family. THEY ARE FUN! Much to their daughters chagrin, these parents know how to bring the laughs and create authentic smiles. We definitely got in all of the beautiful “together” shots, but we also had a blast recreating old failed photos from childhood and just being goofballs. I loved that mom and dad allowed me to take aside each child, chat with them, collaborate with them and capture them in a genuine way. I love that we could have “played” together for another hour…at least! And I love that they all wore Converse sneakers (whoops, except one Nike girl). But still, ultra cool and fun. Thank you Fritzmiller family for sharing your time with me!
If you’re searching for a photographer who loves to have fun and play, I’m your girl. If you’re looking for someone who loves deep color and encourages true connection, I’m your girl. Guess what…I’m your girl. If you’re ready for some fun, contact me and let’s get this party started!!
Arizona Family Photographer | Shannon Ly Photography
Click here to see more images from this FUN family photo session
