Spring is finally here and you know what that means - Family sessions are back in...well, session! And you want to be as prepared as possible, right? I get that!
While I usually bring a bag full of goodies me to every Family session (i.e. balloons, bubbles, noise makers, treats, hand sanitizer, wipes, etc.) - there are still a few things that you will want to consider packing before you head out to your session.
Here are the TOP 5 things that I think EVERY family should bring with them to a photo session, regardless of the length of your session, where you are going to be or how old your kiddos might be.
Diaper Bag or Backpack
This is coming from someone with 3 kids under the age of 5. I am always on high alert to the fact that at any one point during the day, SOMEONE will have a diaper blowout, become hangry or need a tissue for a runny nose without warning. You will want to have quick access to pacifiers, diapers, wipes, tissues, blankets (in case it's chilly), extra hair ties, etc. - anything and everything that will help your child be as comfortable as possible during your session.
Pro Tip #1: If you have an infant or toddler, try to feed them a quick snack about 30-45 minutes before your session. You want them to be just full enough, so they won't get hungry, but not overly full to where you have to worry about them spitting up during the session.
Change of Clothes
Yes, for everyone! Let's face it - life can get messy and the weather (especially here in Ohio) is completely unpredictable. If your kids are anything like mine, they love digging for worms, picking flowers or splashing through every puddle within their view, so a change of clothes (or 3) always comes in handy. Whether you were planning on changing outfits during your session or not, my motto is to always come over-prepared, that way you are ready for anything.
Pro Tip #2: Since most of my sessions are outdoors, it probably wouldn't hurt to also bring an extra pair of shoes. The last thing I'd want to happen is for someone to twist an ankle or stub a toe over a super cute pair of heels or comfy flip-flops. Consider options that are more comfortable for walking and navigating uneven terrain.
Sunscreen (& maybe Bug Spray)
Again, a majority of my sessions are outdoors. There will be lots of sunshine and, possibly, even bugs! It wouldn't hurt to make sure everyone has at least had sunscreen applied prior to your session to prevent anyone from getting a sunburn. Aim for applying it at least 30-minutes before your session, that way you don't have to worry about sunburns OR overly oily-looking skin in your portraits.
Snacks (& Water)
My 2-year old son's nickname is "Snack Attack" - and for good reason. The kid could literally spend all day snacking and STILL be starving. And heaven-forbid he doesn't have a water bottle full of something to go with it. He is the main reason why I always, always, always encourage families to pack extra snacks. While I make a good faith effort to make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible during sessions, I completely understand that children sometimes get overwhelmed or even upset when thrown in to new situations with unfamiliar people. Sometimes something as simple as a granola bar or sip of water is enough to deter someone from having a full on meltdown (children and adults alike). Just make sure to keep snacks as light and "mess-free" as possible.
Pro Tip #3: If all else fails, bribes work for some children. An extra special snack or post-session treat might be all it takes to calm your little nugget down just long enough to get a few good pictures. For instance, I know my son will do just about anything for Peanut M&M's - make his bed, pee in the toilet, sit still for our own Family Portraits - so, no judgment here if you choose to go that route. I am all for anything that makes life with littles easier.
Pro Tip #4: Bring a beer for Dad. Just kidding (...Maybe). But in all seriousness, we all know that men are typically not that into photo sessions at all. If a quick beer before your session will help him loosen up a bit and put on a happy face long for your session, I fully support it!
Favorite Toy or Book
Along those same lines, you will also want to bring your child's favorite thing (i.e. lovey, toy, book or blanket). Children typically relax a little easier if they have something familiar to hold on to or play with during sessions. Be sure to limit what you bring to 1 or 2 items max, as too many items may lead to sensory overload and/or possible tears. As a Mom of littles myself, you can rest assured that I always come prepared with a full bag of tricks of my own that are sure to get your children to crack a smile, giggle or maybe even full-on belly laugh)!
Pro Tip #5: If your child wants to hold on to their lovey during a session - just let it happen! It will allow me to capture more relaxed and genuinely, sweet moments of them. Plus, 20-years from now, you will be able to look back at your portraits and remember the little details from their childhood that you might otherwise have forgotten.
And there you have it - my TOP 5 things to bring with you for a Family Photo Session. Now, let's get out there and rock our Family Sessions together!
What other items would your family need to add to this list?!