Your outdoor family photoshoot is coming up, and we want to help you make the most of it. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience and beautiful results. At LVA Studios, we specialize in stress-free outdoor family photography in Solano County and have put together some key tips to help you get ready for your session.
1. Choose the Right Outfits
Your clothing choices can set the tone for your entire photoshoot. Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best:
- Coordinate, Don’t Match – Choose a color palette with complementary tones instead of everyone wearing the same exact color. Neutral tones, soft pastels, and earth tones work well outdoors.
- Avoid Logos and Busy Patterns – Solid colors and subtle textures photograph best, while large logos and loud patterns can be distracting.
- Dress for the Season – Consider the weather and location. Light layers work well for spring and summer, while cozy sweaters and jackets are great for fall and winter.
- Comfort Matters – Wear outfits that feel good and allow for movement. This helps keep everyone relaxed and natural during the session.
Tip: Lay out your outfits a few days before the session to ensure everything fits and coordinates well.
2. The Best Time for Outdoor Photos
Many people worry about the “perfect lighting” for their photoshoot, but the truth is, the best time is when you can make it work for your family. While golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) provides warm, soft lighting, LVA Studios has the skills and experience to capture great photos at any time of day.
Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” time—focus on what fits your schedule, and we’ll handle the rest.
3. Prepare the Kids (and Pets!)
We love capturing natural, happy moments, so it helps to make sure kids and pets are comfortable before the session.
For Kids:
- Let them know the session is about having fun, not posing.
- Bring small snacks, water, or a favorite toy for breaks.
- Let them wear something they like and feel comfortable in.
For Pets:
- Bring a leash, treats, and any accessories you’d like them to wear.
- Give them some exercise beforehand to help them stay calm.
Tip: Arriving a few minutes early allows kids (and pets) time to adjust to the new environment before we start.
4. Relax and Have Fun
The best photos happen when your family is laughing, playing, and being themselves. There’s no need to stress about getting everything “just right.”
- Let go of stiff poses—natural interactions make for the best photos.
- If kids get fidgety, we’ll adapt and keep things fun.
- Focus on enjoying the moment rather than looking at the camera.
If you’re relaxed, your photos will reflect that.
5. What to Bring to Your Outdoor Photoshoot
To keep the session smooth and enjoyable, consider bringing:
- Extra outfits for young kids (just in case)
- Wipes/tissues for quick touch-ups
- A blanket for sitting poses
- A hairbrush or any small touch-up items
You don’t need to bring much—keeping it simple makes the experience more enjoyable.
6. Arrive Early and Trust the Process
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can settle in before we begin. We’ll guide you through natural poses and candid moments to ensure you get photos you’ll love.
Book Your Outdoor Family Photoshoot Today
With a little preparation, your session will be a fun, relaxed experience with memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
We can’t wait to capture your family’s story.