10 Days of Thoughtful Photos: Day 2

Today's tip is: Enjoy yourself!

I am a portrait photographer. However, I do NOT think that every great image is done in a studio.. or even by professional hands. It's not always the image that is posed, staged, or commanded, or even  bribed by mom that will create the best memory, or capture who the subject is at that point in time. I recently talked to a good friend about just this. It isn't that perfect photo that is captured that should be the focus of the "Family Portrait" but the memories you have of getting ready, playing in front of the camera, and a day of family togetherness that should be "remembered" when you look at that image.

If you, or your family puts so much pressure on being perfect, it wont be fun! I tell clients all the time - don't bother dressing the kids before you put them in the car... by the time you get here you will be a wreak that they have drooled, spit up, splashed in the mud puddle... whatever. Just save yourself the stress, and get dressed at the studio. The more stressed mom is the less fun, and the less productive the shoot will be - ALWAYS, regardless of age! I have kicked moms out of just as many newborn shoots as I have High school senior shoots... when it comes down to it - you have to have FUN!

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If little Suzie wants to stick her tongue out... and thats what she always does... thats her PERSONALITY. That's what you should capture! If everyone is laughing and rolling around in the leaves, and slightly blurry from the motion... isn't that better then blotchy eyes and runny noses in a serious pose? I don't know... but I would rather kick back and throw some leaves, stick my tongue out or eat some ice cream and call it a day.