Preparing for Your Outdoor Family Photoshoot

Family photos are a wonderful way to capture special memories and moments that you can treasure for a lifetime. When it comes to outdoor family photoshoots, proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for your upcoming outdoor family photography session.

How to Prepare for an Outdoor Family Photography Session

Selecting the Right Family Photographer

One of the first steps in preparing for your outdoor family photo session is choosing the right family photographer. Look for a photographer whose style aligns with your vision and who has experience in capturing heartwarming family moments in outdoor settings.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Another important aspect of preparing for your outdoor family photoshoot is selecting the perfect location. The location that I use for my family photography sessions is Penn Wood, near Amersham in Buckinghamshire and is the perfect setting for relaxed, natural family images. The ancient woodland offers a serene setting with its towering trees, lush greenery, and picturesque pathways, providing an idyllic backdrop for capturing candid family moments. The changing seasons bring a unique charm to Penn Wood, from vibrant spring blooms to the warm, golden hues of autumn, ensuring stunning and varied photos year-round. Its tranquil atmosphere and easy accessibility make it a favourite spot for families looking to create timeless memories in a beautiful, natural environment.

Deciding on Outfits and Colors

Coordinate outfits and colours for your family photo shoot to create a cohesive and visually appealing look. Choose colours and styles that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy, and consider the season and location when selecting outfits. I often get asked by families about what to wear and the answer really depends on your family. There’s no magic answer that automatically makes any family look good and the ideal outfit is anything that you feel comfortable in and would be happy to see yourself wearing in images that decorate your home. Wear clothes that you are all comfortable in but that look nice and that you will want to see yourselves in on display. Some families come fully co-ordinated and others prefer to reflect individual styles. Every family is different and the shoot is an outdoor woodland session so just choose based on whatever feels right for your family. I have had families in every range of attire from full suits to welly boots and shorts so take your pick! You can also look through some images in the gallery to get a few ideas on what other families have worn.

Before your family photography shoot

Making sure you are prepared for your family photography shoot.

There's really not too much to worry about for your outdoor family photography shoot and you can mostly just turn up looking good. However, a few things to consider to make sure you get the very best from your session is always advised:

Arrive Early: Give yourselves plenty of time to get to the location and settle in. This will help everyone relax and ensure you’re ready to start on time.

• Toilet Stop Before You Arrive: Make sure everyone has used the toilet before arriving at the location as there are no toilets at the location

• Make Sure Kids are Fed: Ensure your children have had a good meal or snack before the session to keep their energy levels up and spirits high. If you can avoid feeding them during the session, then this will ensure that no time is wasted.

• Faces Wiped and Fresh: Clean faces make for better photos, so give the kids a quick wipe-down to ensure they’re looking their best.

• Avoid Waking Up from a Nap Right Before: Try to avoid scheduling the session immediately after a nap to ensure your children are alert and cheerful. If you think that your child may fall asleep on the journey, then make sure you plan some additional time for them to wake up before the actual session.

• Bring a Blanket to Sit On: A blanket for a few sitting down photographs will give you some great family images.

• Dress Appropriately for the Weather: Ensure everyone is dressed suitably for the weather, with layers if needed, so everyone stays comfortable throughout the session.

Capturing Incredible Family Moments in an Outdoor Photoshoot

Creating a Relaxed Atmosphere

During your family photography session, I try to create a relaxed and fun atmosphere to capture genuine moments. I encourage natural interactions and expressions among family members to bring out the love and connection that defines your family. I try to keep sessions short but make the most of your time by giving you as much variety as possible within your time. I start by capturing a nice group shot of you all followed by some different combinations and then spend the rest of the time capturing some relaxed images of you all and of the children with a few fun games and prompts.

Taking Candid Shots

Candid shots often result in the most heartwarming and authentic family photos. My style for capturing these is through games and prompts, as this sets up a few situations that enable me to capture some incredible, natural-looking moments. Things like jumping competitions, races and other games really bring out natural smiles, laughs and lots of personality in your images.

Creating Lasting Memories with Your Outdoor Family Photo Session

Treasuring Your Photos

View your family photos as a reflection of your beautiful moments together. Display them in your home, create albums, or share them with loved ones to relive your cherished memories and celebrate the love you share as a family. Check my 'what to do with your family photography images' article for a guide on making the most of your images once you have these.

Frequently Asked Questions about Your Outdoor Family Photoshoot with Pumpkins and Pixies

I’m thrilled to help you capture beautiful, lasting memories of your family. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your outdoor family photoshoot.

Q: How can I prepare for my outdoor family photoshoot?

A: To prepare, choose coordinating outfits, pick a meaningful location, and ensure your little ones are well-rested and fed. The guide above will help you prepare for your session.

Q: What are some tips for capturing beautiful family portraits?

A: Stay relaxed, have fun, and let me guide you into natural poses to capture candid moments.

Q: When is the best time of day to schedule an outdoor photo session?

A: The woods offers great shade so anytime of day is good for a shoot.

Q: How do I book a family session?

A: Contact me to discuss find out about getting booked in for your session.

Q: How can I ensure my young children are engaged during the photoshoot?

A: I'm pretty good at engaging young children. I purposely keep sessions short and high-energy to get the most from them. Ensuring your children are well rested (but awake) and fed before your session is always helpful.

Q: What should I bring to the outdoor family photoshoot?

A: A blanket for sitting poses and any small personal items you’d like in the photos.

Q: What should we do if the weather is bad on the day of the shoot?

A: We can reschedule if the weather is unsuitable, or embrace a bit of light rain for unique photos.

Q: How long will the photo shoot last?

A: Most family sessions last about 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time for a variety of shots. I do offer extended sessions for larger families but usually find that 25-30 minutes is the sweet spot to ensure the very best from your session.

Q: Can we include our pets in the photo shoot?

A: Absolutely! Pets are part of the family and can add a personal touch to your photos.

Q: When will we receive our photos?

A: You will receive your edited photos within 5-days after the session through an online gallery.

Q: Do you offer any packages or deals?

A: Yes, I offer various packages and often run summer and autumn offers so get in touch to find out more.

How to Prepare For Your Outdoor Family Photoshoot