Family sessions are traditionally outdoors, taking in the scenery….but they don’t have to be! Some indoor session options include studio family sessions or sessions in your home.
Along with having a different setting, in-home family sessions also often differ in structure. In-home sessions focus less on capturing that ‘Christmas Card Photo’ and more on capturing family connection through everyday activities.
Sarah Pilon and family reading a book in their home.
How do you pick activities for in-home family sessions?
- Plan activities that are meaningful to your family at this stage of life.
- Think about the color of activities, books, etc, and how they match your outfits.
- Pick something that engages your kids and makes them excited. This helps get those genuine smiles.
- Consider the rooms you use for different activities, if you would like them in photos, and if we have high-quality window light available.
Two things to note in this photo: 1. These neutral outfits looked spectacular with their space-themed room. 2. A large window on the right gave this dynamic light.
Will you pose us at our in-home session?
Yes and No. Helping my clients pose in flattering ways is very important to my style. It’s hard to know if your position/movement looks good to the camera. So, I will still provide guidance when needed, but I will mix that with letting moments unfold in front of my camera. I don’t want to miss a special moment between family members by over-posing. It’s all about finding that mythical balance.
Expect to hear me say things like ‘can I see what it looks like if you do _________’, ‘maybe just move your arm over there a little’, ‘can you lean towards the camera a tiny bit’.
Sometimes, random moments like this make the most fun candid photos.
Where in our house should we take the photos?
There is no right or wrong answer, but the living room and master bedroom are great options. Think about your decor, the space available in that room, and if there is a big window.
I have had clients pull a bed out of the bedroom when it was too tight of a space to comfortably take photos in and/or there was little to no available window light. Window light is key to those natural and bright images you are used to seeing in my portfolio. So, do not be afraid to think outside the box if you have a specific image or vibe in mind!
Other spaces to consider:
- Playroom: to capture the kiddos in their element
- Kid Room(s): great for reading a book or showing off their special toys
- Dining Room: squish everyone together on a dining room bench, play a game around the table, share a meal or snack
- Kitchen: make cookies or another fun kitchen activity if it fits your family
- Stairs: candid photos of kids walking up/down stairs
- Front door/porch: great space to photograph a smiling at the camera photo that feels like you are welcoming the viewer into your home
- Other: any space in your home that holds meaning to this stage of life
The master bedroom makes such a fun space as kids often love the novelty of being in their parents’ bed.
How do pets fit into in-home family sessions?
Whatever makes sense for you. But it is fantastic to let them be themselves during your session. Family pets can be so sweet, and I love it when they pop in and out of the activities and photos as they desire. Sometimes, the family pets will get over-excited with the activities, and it may make more sense to have them participate in a few photos and then hang out in their own space for the rest of the session. Don’t be afraid to do what works best for your family.
The photo on the left highlights one of the family pets, and on the right, we included the seasonal decor in just a couple of images.
The Little Moments
During your in-home family session, I will ask lots of questions. These questions help me pull out little bits of personality and capture photos that feel authentic to you. This might be little snuggly moments, or playful or something else entirely.
On the left, I stepped back and let these two have a mommy-daughter moment. On the right, we captured some snuggly smiles.
A few more photos from this in-home session for your inspiration.
If you want to book your in-home family session, reach out via my contact page. I currently only offer in-home sessions in the Detroit Lakes, MN area. If you need to find someone local to your location, your local mom’s Facebook group is a great place to search.
