You have your location picked, you know what you want your clothing to be like, now you have the option of expressing yourself through your images.
Visiting Kerry Stitch at Indigo Tones was a huge step for me in this process. After a lifetime of buying clothes I never wore, her statement of, “You like to dress like everyone else” was strangely liberating. Now I am at peace with my relationship with Eddie Bauer. I admire skirts, dresses and lace from afar.
Your family portraits follow this same principle. Your images should represent your family’s personality.
There are essentially three different styles of family portraits:
1. Formal. Rebecca packed my kitchen for me when we moved. I offered to do portraits for her as a thank you gift. She loves, loves, loves formal images which are generally not my thing, but I couldn’t turn down an opportunity to hear a heartwarming rendition of “Mama has a big ole’ butt, oh yeah.”
2. Natural – this is about 90% of what I end up doing. It’s my personal favorite.
I overuse this image, I know. I think it might just be my favorite family image of all time ever.
Rainy Day Portraits ~ Black Creek Park
Lisa & Brad ~ Tinker Nature Park
Liz & Bernie ~ Brighton
3. Sessions that incorporate an activity. I don’t see a ton of this, but I think it’s awesome to explore some fun activities during a session. If you’re an off the beaten path type of person, check out this Pinterest Board:
Follow Debra Wallace Photography’s board Creative Family Portraits Ideas on Pinterest.
Remember that it’s okay to appreciate someone else’s spunk without feeling like it needs to be yours. At the same time, if you’re a spunky type, be sure to let loose!
The next and final step is Smile.
