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Shooting your family’s holiday card can be stressful; getting little kids to be cute on command is an impossible task–and that’s after you’ve gotten everyone in clean outfits with their hair brushed!
Luckily, with the right photographer and a few helpful tips, you can end up with photos that will last a lifetime. We spoke with seasoned veteran Meg Miller of Meg Miller Photography about her expert tips for making the whole process so much smoother:
Prep Your Photog. "I bring a photo assistant to help get kids to smile," Meg explains. You should email your photographer ahead of time to let them know what things will help bring the smiles, such as their favorite movie characters or something silly that happened at home recently.
Don't Match--Coordinate. "Keep in mind that your outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don't actually match," Meg advises.
Keep Smiling. Your photographer will get the kids' attention--your job is to keep smiling. "Tickling is always a good way to help without talking or dropping your own smile," she explains.
Stay Calm. "These sessions can be stressful if your kids are not cooperating, but a crying and mad child is worse than one who is not smiling," Meg says. The photographer can always chase them around and work on new ideas for posing, she explains.
Bring A Blanket. This is a good way to shoot children under 2. Remember to choose one that you love--it will be visible in photos.
...And Toys. "If you have little ones younger than a year be sure to bring a toy that I can shake or will keep their attention," says Meg.
...And Snacks. "Snacks that aren't messy and do not require a lot of chewing are great to have on hand," she explains. "Mini marshmallows are a good treat and not messy!
.. And A Change Of Clothes--for everyone. "You just never know!" Meg asserts.
