Family Session Style Guide
Thank you for choosing me to capture your family photos! I’m looking forward to meeting you and having fun all while photographing some posed and candid looks!
Leading up to a family photography session, the most challenging part can be deciding what to wear. I’ve created this guide to help take the stress out of the process, and let you know what kinds of outfits work the best for just the right look. If you have any questions after reading this, just let me know!
Your Session
Location
The San Francisco bay area offers some of the best scenery around. There are the green or dry grassy hills (depending on the season), ocean, forests and iconic places like the Golden Gate Bridge or Palace of Fine arts. When planning for the location, think of places that fit your family and are accessible for everyone who is involved. Depending on the scenery, your photos may look darker if there are many trees or greenery in the background compared to open air, dry grass or the ocean. Also, keep in mind that there are travel fees outside of the east bay- Martinez or Walnut Creek area!
What to Bring
Water, snacks, or toys. Anything to keep everyone happy. Ladies may need make up for touch ups. Four legged friends are more than welcome, if they play nice ;), and if our location allows for pets! If it’s chilly outside, you may want to wear a cute and light jacket. Having props can be fun sometimes too!
Timing
When photographing outside, I try to schedule the session 1 hour prior to sunset as this is known as golden hour, or the best timing for soft and even lighting. If the evening, depending on the time of the year, doesn’t work due to naps and meal times etc., we can work out another time that’s best for you. In these cases, we would seek out a place that has a lot of shade if we are outdoors.
Preparation
To avoid last minute stress, make sure to pick out all outfits and props in advance. If your outfits are new make sure your kids wear them a couple times before the photoshoot to make sure they are comfortable and willing to wear them.
It’s All in the Details
Your clothing selection and choice of location will make the biggest difference in the final feel and look of your photos. Feel free to email me questions regarding different outfit choices and what will look best.
5 Wardrobe Tips
Don’t match, coordinate. Pick a color combination for your family to work within. We don’t want everyone to match perfectly or for everyone to wear a single color, but we also don’t want everyone wearing too many different colors and clashing patterns.
Don’t be too seasonal. While the idea of outfits for the season may be appealing, our aim is to produce photos that you can display in your home year round! Unless you live on the north pole, Christmas only really works once a year.
Avoid patterns. Go for earth tones, textures and solid colors. These are the most classic and timeless and will guarantee your outfits are still in style years from now- rather than a trend! It’s also best to aim for layers in your clothing for visual appeal and movement (especially for the ladies! Dresses or a flowy cardigan, etc.).
Fitted = best. While flowy articles of clothing for the girls is fantastic, in general aim for fitted clothing for the guys. Avoid baggy jeans and too loose of shirts, etc.. The same can go for too tight of shirts and dresses where we can see the fabric hugging too tight on stomachs.
We want your session to be fun and enjoyable for everyone involved. If your kid’s clothing is uncomfortable for them to wear, it won’t be nearly as fun. If you’re planning outfits outside of what they are used to, I’d suggest “breaking them in” a few days in advance to get them used to the feeling of wearing those clothes and to make sure they are the right size.
Example Outfits
AIM FOR
Muted Tones
Layers and Movement
Complementary Colors
Avoid busy patterns
Avoid these Outfits
Avoid bright colors, matching outfits, + busy patterns
FAQ’S
What is your shooting style for family photos?
I am a portrait and lifestyle photographer and my style is geared towards capturing real moments! This means getting you interactive and having a fun time together - because that’s where the magic happens. Additionally, I know everyone wants those posed photos where everyone is smiling and looking right at the camera. We’ll get those too!
What if my kids won’t engage?
That’s ok! Many kids are shy or have a hard time with posing for photos - which is why we forget the posing and just get you playing and loving on each other. You just enjoy the moment and I’ll take care of getting the best photos.
Can I cancel or reschedule my session?
Booking deposits are non-refundable as I am holding the date for you and turning away other clients. If you need to reschedule, I’ll need at least 48 hours notice and we will most likely need to book on a weekday due to availability. If the weather forecast shows severe weather conditions like heavy rain or too much smoke from fires, we can reschedule!
Are sessions indoors or outdoors?
Although I prefer to take sessions outdoors, all session locations are chosen by you, to bring your unique vision to life. Indoors or outdoors - we’ll make it happen!
How long is the typical photoshoot?
The typical session is one hour and additionally I offer mini sessions which are 30 minutes and mostly for little ones who are restless! If more time is needed due to having more than two families present, I’d recommend a 1.5 hour photoshoot.
When is my payment due?
Your 30% retainer deposit is required to reserve your date. The remainder of your balance can be paid within a couple days of your session. Photos will not be edited and shared until the full payment has been made.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Venmo or Paypal (as a friend), cash or credit card with a 3% fee. My venmo username is @Athena-Galgiani and the last four digits of my phone number are 8225. My paypal username is @AthenaGalgiani