Portrait Info
Thinking of having a family portrait session? Excellent! There are a few things you can do to prepare. But even if you forget all the rest, make sure you at least have your sense of fun and adventure with you, and be willing to get a little grubby.
Once upon a time…
I would like to tell the story of your family in photographs, so have a think about what is special to your family. Of course I will not be able to include every one of your special things in our time together, but I will try as many as I can within the time allowed.
Click on the link below. You can read a pdf with some ideas to get you started on the sort of stories you might want to tell about your family. I suggest you print it out, scribble notes on it, and have it ready for when we chat about your portrait session.
…in a land far, far away…
Think about the best place for you to achieve these things. Would it be your home? The park? The beach? A cafe? Where are you happiest as a family?
The portrait venue you choose should have at least some open shade. Open shade is solid shade (not speckled or blotchy) that is open to the light on the side(s). For example, this can be found under large trees, on the side of hills (except at noon), under verandas, and inside by large windows.
…there was a big green munchy monster…
Food can be fun at portrait sessions, and has the added bonus of giving fuel for everyone to stay happy and have good time. Large watermelon slices, colourful doughnuts, big lollypops, crunchy whole apples, ice cream cones, and other large pretty foods make for great photos.
Avoid small lollies and snacks, as children put these in their mouths whole, and then everyone has to wait until the snack is swallowed, as all we can see are puffy cheeks and awkward chewing mouths. Bring a drink too, as having fun is thirsty work.
…who wore a chocolate coat with toffee apple buttons…
Clothes are important to consider. I recommend you have a few changes of clothes on hand. Simple plain muted colours are best for group portraits.
Avoid busy patterns, words and logos. For individual portraits, you can go a little crazy if you like. Favourite clothes, dress-ups, gumboots, hats galore… whatever suits each family member’s personality. Textured knits, flowing dresses, colourful stripes and jeans all photograph well.
Bare feet are much preferred. Make sure everyone is comfortable in their clothes, so don’t get dressed up too formally!
He ate and ate and ate, whatever he could find, but he never ever ate cheese.
Children told to be on their best behaviour and smile for the camera end up being stiff, cheesy and unnatural, and I don’t take stiff, cheesy, unnatural portraits. Instead, prepare your family for the session by telling them that Jane is coming to play and take their photo. Tell them you will have lots of fun! If appropriate, include them in brainstorming and gathering special items (see the list above) for the session.
Remember, relax and enjoy your portrait session, and your family will too.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Jane
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Session Details (the boring bits)
Booking : I’ve made it easy! Simply fill in the form on the contact page. If you prefer, you can drop me an email or leave a message on my phone (because chances are, I will be out of mobile range). I will get back to you very soon.
Session length : Allow 1 to 3 hours.
I don’t like to rush children or babies. Time is always allowed for toilet breaks, clothing changes, feeds and mood fluctuations.
Session fee : $120, paid on booking.
Large groups (6 or more) – $150
Session can include anyone you like, from one person to a whole family.
Ordering : A few weeks after your session we will meet again for your ordering session. You will view roughly 35 to 40 5×7 inch prints from your session. You may order as many prints as you wish, there are no minimum purchase requirements.
Prints : Print prices start at $40 for a 5×7 inch print. Framing and ready to hang canvas prints are also available. Prints range from 5×7 to 40×60 inches. Complete pricing details available when booking.
Postponements : If your child is sick, teething, covered in a rash, or otherwise not at all photogenic in the days leading up to your portrait session, please call me. I will be happy to reschedule your session. I don’t want to waste your money and time trying to coax a grumpy child to be jovial. And although I can occasionally patch up a small scratch in photoshop, I’m afraid photoshopping out 593 red rashy spots in every portrait is a bit beyond me. You will be much more satisfied with the portraits if the session is scheduled for a time when everyone is happy and healthy.
