How to Have Fabulous Fall Photos – What to Wear, Do and How to Make it all Happen. And yes, it can really all be stress-free!
I already know what you’re thinking. Fall photos. No way. I’ve heard ALL the things. It’s stressful and my spouse will complain and my kids will go bizzerkk and I never know what to wear or pose or what do I even do with my hands?! (I feel ya!)
These are all things I’ve heard as a photographer over and over again. I’ll leave out the ones that include people criticizing themselves and ‘waiting’ for the perfect time. Listen up ya’ll. Stop the non-sense! Seriously. The only photo you’ll ever regret is the one you didn’t take. I’M NOT KIDDING. But for those who really freak out come infamous Fall photo time, I’ve created a little list of things to prepare yourselves. Oh and an easy link to book your mini session here. Shameless plug for FALL MINI SESSIONS which I haven’t done in YEARS! I’m so excited for this Fall y’all!
Why are there no praise hands emoji’s to insert right now?
1. First things first, Let go of expectations. Life is not perfect and your family should be captured in the manner in which best represents them. By saying this I mean, it’s nice to get a photo of everyone still looking at the camera (I love this shot myself!) but some of my favorites are the candid moments that really let your kids and your relationship shine. Tell yourself ahead of time just to have fun with it and let go of perfect expectations and your photo session will be so much more enjoyable!
2. This is not a joke. Do not arrive hungry. I learned my lesson the hard way one year arriving with a hangry husband whose tummy was growling and him saying he wishes he had a hamburger. Me too buddy, me too. Most sessions take place near the evening time so if you’re holding out for dinner, at least give some snacks. Make this the exception to basic rules of family dinner and just go with it. You’ll thank me later.
3. If you have young children, either arrive 15 minutes ahead of time and change when you get to the location or bring a backup change of clothes for emergencies. This sounds drastic but we once drove an hour to do a photoshoot with our children and my youngest made “quite a mess” all over his clothing. I had no backups. THE SHOW MUST GO ON!
4. One of the hardest decisions for photos can be WHAT TO WEAR. My suggestion is start with what you’re wearing first. Then fill in around the family. Men are typically the easiest to dress. I think you have to play a little and go with what you love and/or want to see hanging in your home. (Hiring a photographer who loves styling helps this one out big time, hint! hint!) A good photographer can walk you through color schemes and/or clothing tips. When in doubt, stick with complimenting colors and pieces of clothing that you love AND that flatter your body. This is important! I’ve heard one too many times, “I can’t stand my arms” and then they show up in a strapless dress. Think about what makes you feel your best and run with it! It’s also SUPER important to say, stop critiquing yourself so heavily. You are beautiful. Amazing. Incredible just the way you are. You are loved exactly for you, and you’re family loves you exactly for you, so stop waiting for the ‘perfect body’ to get in front of the camera! (Check out the shop the post below for a little inspiration!)
5. My biggest take-away is to just DO IT and have FUN! People stress that they aren’t “models” or have no experience in front of the camera so please hear me out. NONE OF US ARE. The job of your photographer is to guide and educate you along the way helping gently pose and direct you to achieve beautiful and natural looking photos you will hopefully love. Trust the process and enjoy yourself! It will be worth it when you look back and are proud that you made the effort to be in the photo with your family. It all goes by too quick!
PERSONAL TIP FOR MEN: We live in Texas, therefore, it’s always hot! My husband is a HUGE fan of Mizzen+Main shirts because they look like a dress shirt but feel like a breezy sports shirt. We’re so happy to have found these! Perfect for this year-round hot Texas weather. Use THIS LINK to save $50 off your first shirt/order!
OH and hey, look at that! Fall Mini Announcement!
If you liked the tips I shared and are ready to give it a try, I’m opening up TWO dates of Fall Mini Sessions October 12th and 13th. There are limited space available, so contact me today.
*Mention this newsletter announcement and receive an 8×10 matted gift print of your favorite photo with your session.
Email: hello@marsais.com with your selected date and to reserve your session today!
