Now is the time to get your perfect family portrait for that ideal holiday card, a keepsake to be cherished for years to come. Preparing for a family photoshoot can be fun but sometimes overwhelming. Here are seven simple, but important, things to remember about how to plan for the perfect and time-lasting family photos.

1. Consider the location.

If using a photographer, they will give you ideas ahead of time or you can let them know what vibe you are going for and what best fits your lifestyle. 

Think about what you can wear that would complement the setting. Are you going to have an urban photoshoot with lots of gray tones or one in nature with bright fall leaves all around you?

2. Decide where you will use the picture.

Where will this picture be displayed in your home? Choose colors (outfits and location) based on how they will correlate with that room or the other art in that same space. Narrow your choices to two or three colors that you can base your clothing items on.

3. Start with Mom’s attire first.

As moms, we often worry about everyone else first, but that does not always work for planning family photos. Take this opportunity to find something you are comfortable in. Put together an outfit that is flattering and creates a tone for the rest of the family. Lets face it, if we moms don’t like how we look in a picture, it’s going to get used over my dead body not very often.

4. Keep it fashionable but timeless.

These portraits will be a long reminder of a special time in your family’s life. Photos are forever so try to find styles, accessories, and photo props such as an old family quilt or a bouquet of flowers that will last the the test of time.

Some examples to look for in your closet are: solid colors, a perfect blazer, tailored pieces, classic shoe styles like loafers or block heel pumps, or accessories that compliment but don’t overpower.

5. Be yourself.

Look for items that best represent your family and characterizes your personalities. By finding items in your current wardrobe or getting pieces that you know they would wear regularly, your family is able to express a more natural mood. Your genuine charisma will shine through the picture and be especially captivating with a more authentic style.

6. Prep the family.

About a week before, have the short-haired members of your family get a haircut. Have your hair color updated if needed. Prep and iron all of the clothes the day before. Lay out everything that will be needed including accessories, photo props, and even socks (because they show sometimes).

On the day of family photos, let the kids sleep late or give them naps. Keep sugar to a minimum, if any, to avoid loss of concentration and possible hyper activity. If doing your own hair and makeup isn’t your thing, treat yourself to a blow out and/or have your makeup professionally applied so you can just enjoy the day with one less thing to stress about.

Plan to show up 15-20 minutes early to freshen up. Have the little ones dress in the car or on site once you get there. During a lifestyle or in-home photoshoot, turn the air conditioner on or open up a window to drop the temperature inside. This will prevent everyone from sweating once you get posing, and also it might encourage more cuddles.

7. Embrace the imperfections.

So many times I have had unrealistic expectations on my children to capture that “picture perfect” moment. As someone starts pouting or the weather doesn’t corporate, disappointment starts to set in. I find myself struggling to be genuine in these moments. But no matter how convinced I am it was a lost cause, I always affectionally look back on those family portraits and prove myself wrong. Stressful moments are now special gifts that show up as sweet memories captured in time forever.

Years later, looking back on a challenging photoshoot, I wish for another opportunity to cuddle so tight on a chilly day or to have one more moment with a toddler that needs to be held to crack a smile. So take the time this season to let everyone be a little silly and allow them to be themselves..

..whoever that is for them right now.

You’ll never regret having a good time; it will shine through in your family photos and captivate observers over and above than anything you could ever wear.

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