Why have a family photoshoot?

About ten years ago, during my sophomore year of high school, my parents and I moved to a new house. One of the things I found was a codec disc that contained a bunch of photos of me, my brother, my cousins, my aunts, uncles, grandpa, and grandma at the beach in the Philippines. They were a mix of photos from different times and places. I'm assuming my dad used a film camera to document our vacations back in the Philippines around 2006, about four years prior.

Seeing these photos of me and my brother hanging out with our cousins back home was one of the most fascinating things. I immediately uploaded them to social media, telling people, "Hey, this is where I used to be. I used to live in the Philippines, and this is how it looked back then." It was very valuable to me.

The thing about moving to a different country is that you don't know what you're getting into. You tend to forget what's behind you as you look forward. You absorb everything: the people, food, culture, music, and more. When you have something to look back on, like photos, you understand that you're from somewhere else. It gives you a sense of belonging, whether that's a good or bad thing. You'll always go back to those memories when you have something to remind you.

Seeing photos of my cousins, aunts, and grandparents, who were still alive back then, was a beautiful thing. It made me feel connected to my past and my time in the Philippines. Some of the photos were from vacations during typhoon season, with palm trees and bamboo huts. It wasn't ideal compared to modern amenities, but the photos brought back memories of the raindrops, the sound they made, and my cousins running around. I could see my uncle cooking and my aunt, who I absolutely adored, being there too.

That's the power of photography. It transports you back and gives you a sense of belonging. You can't summarize or contain its value; it's priceless.

Here's some more reasons why you should hire a family photographer and get Family Session on Wrightsville Beach.

1. PRESERVE MEMORIES FOR THE FUTURE

Life moves quickly, and children grow up fast. Looking back at old family photos, like the ones I found from our vacations in the Philippines, reminded me how quickly time flies. A family photoshoot captures those fleeting moments, preserving them for future generations. These photos become cherished keepsakes, allowing you to look back and remember the special times you shared.

2. STRENGTHEN FAMILY BONDS

A family photoshoot is more than just taking pictures; it's an opportunity to spend quality time together. Just like how my family bonded during our vacations, the experience of posing, laughing, and interacting during the session strengthens your bond and creates new memories to cherish. It's a fun and meaningful way to celebrate your family's unity.

3. CELEBRATE MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or a new addition to the family, a photoshoot is a perfect way to celebrate these milestones. Professional photos capture the joy and significance of these events, allowing you to relive the excitement and pride of your accomplishments. Those vacation photos of my cousins and me running around, with my uncle cooking nearby, bring back the joy of those special times.

4. CREATE BEAUTIFUL ARTWORK FOR YOUR HOME

Family photos make for stunning decor pieces that add warmth and personality to your home. Displaying these images reminds you daily of the love and joy you share as a family. They serve as constant reminders of your family's journey and the moments that matter most. Every time I see the photos from our beach vacations, I'm reminded of my roots and the beautiful memories we created together.

HOW TO GET FAMILY PHOTOS

Capturing beautiful family photos is a wonderful way to preserve memories and celebrate your loved ones. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get family photos:

1. CHOOSE A PHOTOGRAPHER

Start by finding a photographer whose style you love. Look for recommendations, browse online portfolios, and read reviews. Make sure to pick someone who makes you feel comfortable and understands your vision.

2. SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION

Once you've chosen your photographer, book a session at a time that works for everyone. Consider the time of day and how it affects lighting. Golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) is often perfect for outdoor shoots.

3. DECIDE ON A LOCATION

Think about what kind of backdrop you want for your photos. Do you prefer the beach, a park, an urban setting, or your own home? Discuss your ideas with your photographer to find the best spot.

4. PLAN YOUR OUTFITS

Coordinate your outfits to complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. Consider the location and season. We’ll dive into this more in the "What to Wear for Your Family Photos" section below.

5. PREPARE YOUR FAMILY

Talk to your family about the session and what to expect. Make sure everyone is well-rested, fed, and relaxed. Bring snacks and drinks for the little ones to keep them happy during the shoot.

WHERE TO GET FAMILY PHOTOS

There are plenty of beautiful locations to choose from for your family photos. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. BEACHES

Beaches offer a stunning and natural setting. The ocean, sand, and sky provide a serene and picturesque backdrop for your photos. Think about times when the beach is less crowded for a more intimate feel.

2. PARKS

Local parks are fantastic for family photos. They provide a mix of open spaces, greenery, and interesting features like ponds, trees, and benches. Parks are great for capturing both candid and posed shots.

3. URBAN SETTINGS

For a more contemporary vibe, consider an urban setting. Downtown areas, murals, and cityscapes offer dynamic backgrounds with lots of character. Look for interesting architecture and street art.

4. YOUR HOME

Home is where the heart is, and it's a place where everyone feels comfortable. Photos taken in your home can be very personal and cozy, capturing your family in a natural environment.

5. SPECIAL LOCATIONS

Think about places that have special meaning to your family. Maybe it's a favorite hiking trail, a botanical garden, or a historic site. These locations add a personal touch to your photos.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR FAMILY PHOTOS

Choosing the right outfits for your family photos can make a big difference in how your photos turn out. Here are some tips:

1. COORDINATE, DON’T MATCH

Choose a color palette that complements everyone without looking too uniform. Soft, neutral tones often work well, or you can opt for a pop of color that ties everyone together.

2. CONSIDER THE LOCATION AND SEASON

Think about where and when you’ll be taking the photos. For a beach shoot, light and airy clothing works well. For fall photos in a park, cozy sweaters and scarves can add a seasonal touch.

3. COMFORT IS KEY

Make sure everyone is comfortable in their outfits. Avoid clothes that are too tight, itchy, or difficult to move in. Happy and comfortable family members make for better photos.

4. AVOID LOGOS AND BUSY PATTERNS

Solid colors or subtle patterns are best. Avoid large logos, text, or busy patterns that can distract from the faces and emotions in the photos.

5. ACCESSORIZE THOUGHTFULLY

Simple accessories can add a nice touch to your outfits. Think about hats, scarves, or jewelry, but don’t overdo it. The focus should be on your family, not the accessories.

6. LAYERS AND TEXTURES

Adding layers and textures can make your outfits more interesting. Think about incorporating jackets, vests, or different fabric textures to add depth to your photos.

SCHEDULE YOUR FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT TODAY

Don't let time slip away without capturing the essence of your family's story. Schedule a family photoshoot and create beautiful, lasting memories that you'll treasure forever. Let's celebrate your family's unique journey together, just like I did with mine.