Scheduling pictures can be quite a challenge for any family.  Trying to schedule family pictures while on vacation is an almost impossible feat to undertake so I’m thrilled when a family takes the time and planning to schedule with me.  And it can be done and done successfully if you try some of these tips.

• try to pick a familiar spot (at a family member’s house, the same favorite beach spot) or if you can’t pick someplace familiar, try to get to your session location early to give your children the opportunity to get comfortable with the location.
• keep your picture day schedule relaxed.  Try to schedule around naptimes and even schedule downtime for older children.
• be flexible during your photo time.  There is nothing more stressful then mom or dad threatening punishment for not smiling.  Trust your photographer to get to know your children and help them to loosen up and relax.  Silliness is always helpful especially if dad can join in.
• let your kids be themselves.  If they’re going through a more serious stage, let your photographer capture that.  Not every photo has to have everyone smiling.
• bribery is helpful.  Planning a special treat or outing after your photo session can be helpful but don’t threaten to take away the treat for not smiling.

As I’ve mentioned before one of the benefits of this job is getting to see families grow through the years.  This family is one of those special families.  They live down south but come home to Western PA for visits and every now and then, we plan some family pictures.  The last time I met them was at their family reunion (such a fun and welcoming family). Back then, they were a family of 5.  This time, they were just up for a visit over the 4th of July and were now a family of 6.  2 energetic boys and 2 sweet girls plus mom and dad.

I was so excited to get to meet the new little one as well as see how the older ones have changed.

Such a little sweetheart and all smiles.

Big sis is growing into a lovely young lady.

And you can just see the mischief with these two (especially the little one)

Something about these images, make me think timeless so I had to share them in black and white.

It took some work but we got everyone together.