With the holiday season right around the corner, this is the perfect time to schedule your family portrait session. Natalie Roberson Photography has ten years of experience providing family photography services. We can capture candid moments as well as classic portraits to hang over the fireplace. Family portraits are gaining popularity as many people love to use them for Christmas cards and gifts. For quality family photography services that our customers have rated 4.9 out of 5, contact Natalie Roberson Photography today!
When should I Schedule Family Portraits to use in time for Christmas?
Try to schedule your family portrait session 2-3 months in advance. You will need to schedule an appointment and we schedule on a first-come, first-served basis. For outdoor photo sessions, we photograph one hour before sunrise or one after sunset Monday through Friday, and we can schedule indoor sessions at our 5,000 square foot studio any time during normal business hours. Some weekend appointments are available for an additional fee. Our calendar tends to fill up quickly, so please contact us at your earliest convenience to check our availability.
How Long Does a Family Photo Shoot Take?
Times will vary depending on the number of children and their ages but on average, a family portrait photoshoot will take about 45 to 90 minutes. If you have a newborn, the session might take up to two hours. If you want an outside photoshoot on a chilly day, we will try to speed up the session so your family will be more comfortable.
When Should you Take Christmas Card Pictures?
Weather and daylight are key factors when you are scheduling family photography services. If you want an outdoor session, we will plan it around the best lighting possible. On clear sunny days, the best time to take photos is an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset. On cloudy days, plan to end your sessions at least an hour before sunset, because the light will dissipate much sooner than on sunny days.
How many images do we get from a Family Portrait Session?
A typical family portrait photoshoot results in about 100 images. The photographer will pick the best one or two images from each of the various poses. The family usually ends up with 40-50 final photos from the photoshoot. Then you can choose which ones will work for holiday cards and which ones may make great gifts!
What should a Family Wear for Christmas Photos?
The most important thing a family portrait should capture is the members of your family, and not what you’re wearing! When choosing your outfit, try to pick out colors that bring out your eyes and look best with your skin tone. Bright jewel tones such as red, green, and blue are flattering for most people. Feel free to accentuate your outfit with the perfect scarf or tasteful jewelry. But stay away from busy patterns or large jewelry that can distract from your face. For men, button-down shirts, blazers, and ties give them that finished look. Women look great with camisoles and matching jackets. Try to avoid wrinkles, missing buttons, dangling bra straps, and make-up stains because they will show up on camera! Finally, some of the best photos feature families wearing “pops” of the same color, but not too matchy-matchy.
What is the Best Way to Take Pictures of a Family for Christmas?
There are countless variations for the best family portraits. The key is to have fun and try to look natural. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:
- You have three great options of venues:
- Our 5,000 square foot studio
- A location of your choice
- A local outdoor spot, including downtown areas with rustic colors and textures, local parks with lots of grass and trees, or open fields for beautiful sunset shots.
- Parents keeping their gaze on their children (not the camera)
- Keep everyone on the same level- with stools, benches, or other props that we will provide. Family members can sit or stand so the height differences aren’t so staggering.
- Include a beloved pet in your photo.
- Tip! Give squirmy kids a job to do such as carefully holding an ornament or squeezing a coin tight in their hands to keep their arms still.
Holidays can be stressful, but your family portraits don’t have to be. Contact Natalie Roberson Photography today to schedule a photoshoot for your family that will exceed your expectations and bring your family joy that will last a lifetime!