Jean Wines Photography is happy to be partnering with Sweet Beans Coffee Bar again this year, to offer Santa Sessions. All families will receive 1 complimentary digital image. We are also excited to share photos will be immediately available to be viewed after each session and prints may be purchased on-site!
More details are available in our registration form.
We are encouraging contactless registration forms and payment methods. Please complete our registration form by clicking this link. Sessions are on a first come first serve basis. Our contactless payment options are Cash App and PayPal.
Thank you for your business, We hope to see you then!
Hampton Roads Maternity, Family and Senior Photographer | Jean Wines Photography
Hampton Roads Family Photographer |Jean Wines Photography
Today, I am sharing how to set yourself up for a successful family session with my top 3 tips. With over 8 years of experience as a family photographer, I have found the solution to a successful family session. I have to be honest and admit: I am the mom that dreads family sessions. Even when my children were little, thinking about everything I had to do caused me to panic. All the planning fell on me. Not only did I have to prepare my family, but I was the photographer too. I was never worried about doing a good job photographing. But, boy was I nervous about how they would behave! Even now, as teens, my children still give me trouble. Good news for all of us, after years of learning what works the best for families (including my own) there is hope.
By following my top 3 tips, you will certainly set your family up for success , stress-less and panic no more.
Top 3 Tips to Set Yourself Up for a Successful Family Session
1. Schedule the best time for everyone!
Evening sessions typically occur the last hour before sunset, also known as the golden hour. It is the ideal time photographers will want to schedule because as the sun begins to set the sky fills with gorgeous colors and makes the perfect backdrop! However, this means your session will start late in the evening, and sometimes right at dinnertime. For families with little ones, I recommend eating an early dinner then plan on treating the children with dessert afterwards! A sweet reward for good behavior works every time.
2. Wardrobe: plan early and worry less.
Deciding what to wear for your entire family can be stressful. Try to keep in mind that being comfortable is more important than what you actually decide to wear. Keep the line of communication open with your photographer and always ask for guidance. I often check-in with my clients and ask for photos of outfits. By checking-in, I am able to correct any styling issue beforehand. Sometimes clients need another set of eyes to help them make a final decision. If you plan to shop, then try following these simple rules: coordinate, avoid pattern overload, and don’t forget to accessorize! Visit me on Pinterest to learn more what to wear.
3. Everyone needs to get sleep!
The night before try to make sure everyone being photographed goes to bed early, including you! Trust me, when I say that even an extra 30 minutes will help. I also recommend that before you go to bed, set a “Roll Call” alarm. What is that, you might ask? Well, it is my solution to Murphy’s Law. Heres what you do: set an alarm for at least 45 minutesbefore you have to leave for your session. When the alarm goes off, this is the time to do one last look. Is everyone dressed with shoes on, and hair and makeup finished. If anything does come up, like missing a shoe or a tantrum, relax and breathe. Because you have the extra time! Grab your bags, load everyone up and hit the road.
I hope you feel better prepared and are now ready to book your family session! I strongly recommend booking your session in the fall. Read more about why fall is the perfect season for family photos. Whatever you do decide, don’t get caught in the Holiday rush and book late. Or, you’ll be like me and mail your family Christmas cards after the New Year.
