Preparation for the extended family photos
Preparation is key to a successful session. Both on my part and yours; for myself I need to make sure all of my gear is good to go and in working order. Batteries charged, SD cards loaded all of the above and more. I work with your family/family groups to find the best timing for lighting, nap schedule and avoiding meal times (making sure your little ones are fed and well rested is very helpful)
On your end, communication is key, extended family sessions require clear communication of session timing, location, outfit coordination- making sure everyone knows what to expect. Ideally on the day of the session every one involved is already aware of all of the above and has their outfits (Click here for outfit tips!) all picked out. About a half hour before you need to leave grab a no-mess type of snack (think a baby mum-mum, cheese or crackers something that won't stain your kids clothes or be hard to clean up before leaving) and have your kiddos eat it, that way they aren't super hungry by the time the photos are taking place.
During the session
I plan on allowing lots of wiggle room for the kids to be kids. There's nothing like having a photo session where kids are able to run around and play with grandparents and cousins.
I typically get some of the full group shots done at the beginning to guarantee we've got the one full shot with the kiddos looking their best, I also love to do some at the end when they are more relaxed and settled into the understanding of what we are doing. In the in-between is the sweet spot where you get all kinds of groupings of different family units and grandparents with all their grandkids. If you have ideas of the perfect shot this is the time to share them!
Mindset
As difficult as this can be, having a relaxed mindset is crucial. Understanding that the perfect session in your mind doesn't exist, however once you let that go you get something truly beautiful and better than you had in mind to begin with.
If you are concerned about the kids - I have over 14 years of experience working with kids of all different ages and difficulties (and have a young daughter myself!).
If its how you'll look - Find a cute outfit that you feel confident in and allow the memories to be the priority, in years to come you'll look back with much kinder eyes than right now, believe me I've been there!
If it's not feeling comfortable behind the camera - I got you, I can pose you in the right ways to make things feel natural and also give you promptings to get you focused on your family (when in doubt of what to do with your hands, pockets are lovely options, holding a young child is another and also placing your hand behind someone's back can work too!) Whatever your concern, I can help guide you through it!
Afterwards
You go home! All your hard work is finished and you can relax. This is where I come in, typically for these sessions within 72 hours I share a few sneak peaks. I'll send the person who booked the session with me a link to the photos that you can share to the other family units. It'll take about 2-3 weeks for me to edit all the photos and make sure I got all the good ones and made sure that things are looking perfect. Once I've done that, I'll let you know and I'll send over that link again to receive them.
Please make sure to download the photos rather than screenshotting. As tempting as it is the photo looks DRASTICALLY better if downloaded. Put them in a safe folder on a harddrive and share away to all your other family and friends as you see fit.
Additionally if you'd like to order some prints reach out to me and I can get you set up with all kinds of prints/albums and more!
Booking your session!
If you read through this and are all set to book your extended family session Click Here for more details about pricing. Click Here to book! I'd be honoured to be your photographer! Additionally If you have any questions at all please reach out to me at Elizabethmayhewphotography@gmail.com I'd love to be able to help.
