Are you curious about what it’s like to work with a family photographer in MN? Below, I’m breaking down what to expect during your photoshoot, including the unexpected benefits, how to find the right photographer for you, and how to embrace the ‘chaos’ of parenthood during your family photos. Keep reading for more details to help you set up first, or next family photoshoot.
Are Family Photos in MN Worth It?
As a mom, I fully understand that life with children always feels busy. As parents, we are constantly navigating daily routines. Our schedules are filled with school drop-offs, work, sports & activities, weekend classroom birthday parties, and never-ending to-do lists. Sometimes, it feels as if we’ve barely come up for air as we prepare to greet the next holiday or event. Needless to say, it doesn’t exactly feel intuitive to carve out time for a photoshoot.
But that fast-moving pace we experience through our children’s adolescence is the exact reason why we should press pause. Because the honest truth is, finding the perfect time to work with a family photographer in MN doesn’t exist. Much like everything else we navigate as parents, we have to find a (sometimes seemingly impossible) way to make it a priority. In fact, I’ll let you in on a little secret. A common phrase I hear from the families I work with is “I’m so glad we made the time for this”. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment you have to actively choose to shut down your calendar. Just for a moment. To spend time together as a family while capturing photos that embody the beautiful life you’ve built together.
The Power of Family Photos
The power of pressing pause to take family photos is a special kind of magic, isn’t it? We get to capture your children at this exact stage of life for you to look back on throughout the years to come. Children grow and change so quickly, don’t they? In fact, sometimes, we can be a little oblivious to it until we find ourselves refreshing their wardrobe. But family photos in MN allow us to fully embrace this exceptional time during their childhood. A time when they are still so small, carefree, and full of imagination. And a time when you, as their parents, are the absolute center of their world.
Even though life can look and feel chaotic, the power of family photos lies in the ability to make time stand still while capturing the moment. Looking back on images of your children and family throughout the years will remind you of the love, connection, and small joys you experienced in those seconds of everyday life together.
Unexpected Benefits of Working With a Family Photographer in MN
You’ve probably heard of ‘mini’ sessions. Oftentimes, you’ll find a family photographer in MN offering these during a specific holiday or season. These sessions are usually lightning quick (20-30 minutes) and come with a pre-determined number of images as part of the offering. They are very much about sitting down, smiling at the camera, and then heading out. While they can be beneficial if you are hoping to update photos of just the children or capture photos with specific props in the backdrop, a standard photoshoot with a family photographer in MN offers so much more. Here are 5 benefits of working with a family photographer.
1. Time to Relax
A longer session means less pressure. This allows your children time to warm up on their own terms and let their personalities shine. There’s no cajoling, bribing or stressing about getting them to sit and smile for an ultra short mini session.
2. Deeper Connections Captured
More time means more quality moments spent together. With a longer session, siblings can play, cuddle, and giggle. And you can be part of the magic, joining in on the fun, without the added stress of racing the clock.
3. Creative Freedom
Mini-sessions are usually about sitting in a setup or theme, smiling, and exiting. A family photoshoot is about your family, not props or a setup. You’ll have time to explore and enjoy each other’s company without feeling rushed. We can hone in on the moments that are most important to you, and I will provide you with a mix of candid and traditional photos.
3. Embracing the Chaos
More allowable time means more spontaneous moments! Giggling and running around is so much more fun than sitting on the same bench for 20 minutes. If your child wants to play, smell the flowers, or climb and explore, I not only welcome it, I highly encourage it!
4. Storytelling in Photos
What is so meaningful about photography is the depth of storytelling it carries. Family photos gives us the opportunity to document moments both big and small. Along with those meaningful details that make up the beauty of your unique family dynamic. Photography is about recalling the memories and the moments spent together.
Answering FAQs About Working With a Family in Photographer MN
It’s not uncommon to have questions before booking your session. Especially if this is your very first time stepping in front of the camera together. Below, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions, ones I often receive as a family photographer in MN.
How Do I Choose A Family Photographer?
There are two central elements to selecting a family photographer in MN before booking a photoshoot. The first is style, and the second is your comfort level with the photographer. You’ll want to look at the photographers style carefully before making a decision. Does their style closely mirror your own? Can you imagine your family in photos such as the ones show on their website? Comfort level is equally important when selecting a family photographer. Did the photographer carefully answer all of your questions? Were they able to put you at ease throughout the booking process? Did an initial call with them allow you to feel guided and supported? You are entrusting a family photographer with your lifelong memories, if they were able to handle your inquiries with care then you are in the right place.
What Are The Different Styles Of Family Photography?
When it comes to family photography, there are several approaches to style. Some family photographers pose their clients and focus on capturing perfect smiles. Others create an editorial experience by photographing in a studio. My personal approach is lifestyle photography. I like to meet my clients where they are at this stage of life and focus on capturing what that looks like for them. This can be in their home or at a local public location. This method is more documentary and allows them to enjoy the space the same way they normally would, with me along for the ride, capturing every cherished moment.
How Long is a Typical Family Photoshoot?
I know you’re busy, but I also know how important this family photoshoot is to you. I like to make your time in front of the camera as fun and engaging as I can for not only your children but for you as well. You can expect the session to last around an hour.
I’m Worried My Children Won’t Cooperate….
I completely understand this concern. There is no room for perfection and posing when it comes to family photos. Your session with me will be relaxed and playful. If we meet in an outdoor space such as a park, children will be encouraged to play, explore their surroundings, and have fun with Mom and Dad. Your family photos are all about how you love each other and interact, not how well you can pose and smile. I can’t think of a better way to evoke genuine smiles than recreating some of your favorite games and being present with your children during your session.
Should I Get Makeup Done For Family Photos?
This is a question I receive from time to time. But a more common phrase I hear is “I don’t feel photo-ready”. The truth is, if we wait until the moment we feel “photo ready”, that moment will never come. If makeup is something you enjoy as part of your daily routine, but you want to treat yourself to a professional makeup experience for your photo shoot, then go for it. However, if makeup is not your thing, I would highly discourage you from going this route. The more relaxed you feel and the more you embody your everyday self, the more joy you’ll have during the photoshoot. I can’t think of anything more beautiful than that, can you? You will never regret being in the frame, with your family by your side, with or without makeup.
How Often Should We Take Family Photos?
That is entirely up to you. I would encourage you to capture family photos at least once a year. Decide whether you’d like to align your family photoshoot with a specific time of year or holiday and make it a fun annual family tradition.
How Soon Should We Book our Family Photos?
After a long cold winter indoors, spring tends to be the time when many families start thinking about booking their photoshoot. If you wish to host your session outdoors, absorbing the sweet smell of spring air, my advice to you would be to book your session as soon as possible. This will ensure you receive your preferred date.
Capturing Your Memories
As a family photographer in MN, I work closely with families, throughout the year, to capture their cherished memories. You can learn more about the family photography experience I provide through this link. Or, while you’re here, you can view some of my most recent work through the links below:
