Hey there! I’m thrilled when families invite me into their homes to capture their unique stories. There’s something so special about photographing you in your own space—where you’re most comfortable and your personality shines through. To help you get ready for a smooth, fun, and authentic in-home photo session, here are my top five tips (plus a few bonus ideas!) to prep like a pro without the stress.
1. Let in the Light
Natural light is the secret sauce to making your home look warm and inviting in photos. Before your photographer arrives, turn off those indoor lights and throw open the curtains, blinds, and windows. That soft, golden glow will help highlight the best spots in your space. When I get there, I’ll ask you to give me a quick tour so we can find the coziest, brightest corners together—no need to overthink it ahead of time. Just let that sunshine work its magic!
Bonus Tip: If it’s an overcast day, don’t worry—soft, diffused light can be just as beautiful.
2. Wear What Feels Like You
Forget stiff, formal outfits that make you feel like you’re playing dress-up. The goal is to look and feel like you. Choose comfy, coordinated clothes that reflect your family’s vibe—think soft neutrals, cozy textures, or even a bold pop of color if that’s your style. A great trick? Start with mom’s favorite outfit (because let’s be real, you set the tone!), then build everyone else’s looks around it for a cohesive feel. Add layers like a cardigan or scarf, or toss in fun accessories like hats or jewelry to show off your personality. Keep it simple, though—the focus should be on your connection, not the clothes.
Bonus Tip: Avoid loud patterns or logos that might distract from your faces. Bare feet are key for a relaxed, at-home feel!
3. Tidy, But Don’t Stress
A little decluttering goes a long way—maybe scoop the toys off the floor or clear the dishes from the sink—but don’t feel like your home needs to look like a magazine spread. I’m not here to photograph a showroom; I’m here to capture you. The lived-in charm of your space—think a favorite quilt on the couch or a stack of well-loved books—adds heart to your photos. Skip the deep clean and focus on a quick tidy of surfaces and the areas we’ll use most (like the living room or kitchen).
Bonus Tip: Have a basket handy to toss stray items into if you want a fast fix during the session. It’s a game-changer for keeping things chill!
4. Plan a Loose Activity
Some of the best shots come from those unscripted, in-between moments when you’re just being yourselves. Think about a casual activity your family loves—snuggling on the couch with a book, baking cookies in the kitchen, or playing a silly game with the kids. I’ll guide you through it, but having something simple in mind keeps the energy natural and fun. Not sure what to do? Even a dance party or a tickle fight can turn into pure photo gold!
Bonus Tip: If you’ve got pets, include them! A furry friend jumping into the mix can add extra joy (and maybe a little chaos—my favorite!).
5. Relax and Trust the Process
This is the big one: let go of the pressure to be perfect. Forget stiff poses or forcing everyone to say “cheese.” My job is to capture the real, messy, beautiful stuff—wild kids, belly laughs, and all the love in between. Don’t worry if the little ones run circles around us or if your hair’s not flawless—I’ll work with it and make it look amazing. Just show up as you are, trust me to catch the good stuff, and have fun with it. You’ve got this!
Bonus Tip: If nerves creep in, take a deep breath and focus on connecting with your family. A quick hug or a shared laugh can melt the tension and make for the sweetest shots.
Ready to Make Some Memories?
That’s it! With these tips, you’re set for a laid-back, love-filled session that’s all about your family’s unique story. If you’re feeling excited (or even a little curious) about how it’ll all come together, drop me a message—I’d love to chat! Can’t wait to hang out with you and help keep these moments close. See you soon!
