Guidance on preparing for your studio family portrait photoshoot

The studio photoshoots are a very different set-up to the outdoor shoots. There is more styling involved, which is my expertise but there a few small factors for you to consider prior to your family portrait photoshoot…

Colour palette

I always use a dark backdrop for studio family portrait photoshoots, so considering colours that stand out against the black is advisable. I would recommend choosing three sets of clothing for the studio photoshoot – one light, one with a darker tone and one more vibrant colour.

Hair and make-up

You may be totally happy and comfortable with doing your own hair and make-up for the family portrait photoshoot, which is great. However, if you’d prefer to have a professional take care of the beauty side of things for you then I have some amazing local recommendations:

Posing for your studio photoshoot

There’s no need to worry about how you need to pose during your studio family portrait photoshoot. I will guide you through the position you need to be in, the placement of your feet, hands, chin etc., so you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Styled variations 

I’ll take the group through various set-ups during your studio photoshoot. For example, some will be styled for sitting, some for standing, and shots will be taken of the whole group, smaller groups and individually to give you an array of options to choose from. It would be worth you thinking about the sets of people you’d like in each shot in advance.

What to expect

 I always aim to make you and your family feel as comfortable as possible during your family portrait photoshoot, so you can expect a very relaxed studio environment. My studio is always lovely and warm with chilled music playing in the background. I’ve set up little seating areas for you to relax in with snacks and drinks for you to enjoy, magazines to read and colouring for kids.

I allocate a 1 hour time slot for your studio family portrait photoshoot but we don’t often need the full hour - this just gives us plenty of time to prepare and get comfortable.

To find out more about my studio family portrait photoshoots, visit here.

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