Tempe, AZ photographer: Why You Should Book an In-Home Family Lifestyle Session
Want to know one (1) way to make your family photo session different from all the rest? Try an in-home family lifestyle photo session!
What is an in-home family lifestyle photo session?
A family lifestyle session is exactly what it sounds like…it’s a photoshoot to document your family and your lifestyle. This type of session will look and play out much different than say, a mini session. Those portrait sessions usually include everyone dressed up, posed and looking at the camera, and they can feel quite rushed.
A family lifestyle session, however, has the intent of capturing more candid moments in the more relaxed setting of your own home. There’s still a loose dress code but it won’t be sweats and t-shirts either (although if I’m honest, sweats have gone from slob to sporty so maybe sweats are an actual option on the style table…haha!) One other thing to love about an in-home family lifestyle session is the closeness. Since we’re confined to the smaller spaces of a home you’ll need to snuggle in, interact with each other…think tickle fights, maybe even reading books with one another. So with some gentle prompting, and a little planning, I’ll be able to capture truly genuine moments between you and your family.
5 Reasons to choose an in-home lifestyle family photoshoot
Authentic moments mean authentic expressions/emotions - Oftentimes driving up to an hour away to have your pictures taken by a complete stranger can bring on anxiety for even the most social children. Let’s face it, kids feel most comfortable in their own surroundings, they let their guards down and really let it all go (cue Elsa). When that happens I get to capture your kids naturally - their silliness, genuine smiles, even the way they chew their lip in concentration! There’s no pressure to look at the camera which elicits true authenticity.
Life goes fast and, the truth is, as we age our minds get muddy. Your kiddo's will grow up, your house will change, but you'll always be able to look back at these photos and remember these moments as they were. It’s my job to create something memorable for you to store up in your hearts.
You get to stay home! Mic DROP!!! Leaving the house with kids is not easy, never has been and never will be. Staying at home allows you to drop that diaper bag at the door, hang the backup outfits back in the closet, take a deep breath and put your feet up…literally! I come to you, how awesome is that!
I can include your pets too! Sometimes the family dog can be more of a show stopper than anyone else in the house. Photographing in your own home means we can include your beloved dog, cat or even lizard! But not snakes, I absolutely draw the line at snakes.
The Weather. Here in Arizona, we all know that no one wants to stand outside for an hour in triple digit heat. Lord help us! Likewise in Vermont, where I also shoot, nobody wants to cover up their pretty outfits with bulky, unattractive coats. With the session taking place in your home, we won't need to worry about sunburn or heatstroke or frostbite or frozen boogers. An in-home family lifestyle session is the perfect option for when the weather is less than ideal.
How to prepare for an in-home photoshoot
Since I'll be photographing the inside of your home, minimal clutter is preferred. But if you want to show the authenticity of having kids, it's completely up to you! Open all the windows to let in the natural light, and make at least one bed in the house that your family can snuggle on.
Kids can be chaotic. Before the shoot, set aside any important items you might want me to photograph…think a favorite stuffie or blankie, maybe sports equipment, etc.
As far as what to wear, I would follow the same advice I give to all my clients no matter the type of session. No logos, no neon colors, no crazy patterns, no words on shirts or characters. It’s your home, feel free to be casual but put together…is that a thing? And as always, I’m here to talk about all things style related and give direction as needed.
I like to kind of loosely plan out what will be happening while I’m in the home. Maybe it’s meal time, maybe you’re baking together. Other activities that would promote closeness are things like putting together a puzzle, reading books, playing with Legos or the family pet. Maybe there’s even a park or playground close by that we can walk to and get some fun pics there too! There are literally endless activities to do inside the home, even though your kids probably tell you there literally is NOT!
So if you’re dying to try something different or the weather is too hot or too cold, then I suggest trying an in-home family lifestyle photoshoot. When you’re ready, give me a call and let’s create something memorable out of your beautiful life.
All My Love,
