For the most part, we take family photos for our kids – because they’re cute, and because they can see how much we love them. But it’s not wrong to want yourself to look good too!  Here are a few go-to tricks to help you look and feel your best at your next session.

1) FIRST TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

It’s like the airplane safety card says-put on your own oxygen mask before assisting other people! You spend your days taking care of everyone else in your family, but this time it’s your turn – family photos are a good excuse to treat yourself like a queen for a day!

Here’s what it might look like for you:

• Book yourself a hair appointment (with a flexible rescheduling policy in case we get rained out) or DIY with a rounded brush and hairdryer.
• Let the kids sleep over at their grandparents’ or relative’s house so you can get a good night’s sleep
• Stay home from work (only if you’re able to) or leave a little earlier than usual on that day to recharge your batteries!
• Turn on your favorite music station and treat yourself to an extra long shower

Half the battle of looking good is feeling good. Try to set yourself up for a stress-free day and it will shine through in your pictures!

2) KNOW YOUR ANGLES!

Take a look at photos you like of yourself. How are you angled in them?

• Angle your body slightly to the side instead of facing the camera straight on, then rest your weight on your back leg
• Make sure your face is turned straight to the camera
• Lean your upper body slightly forward
• Bring your chin forward and down (this helps give you more of a jawline/less double chin!)
• Keep your arms bent and slightly away from your waist – (an easy way to do this is to put your hands in your pockets!)
• Cross your feet so that one foot is behind the other

3) LET YOUR KIDS BE YOUR FOCUS

It’s so easy to stress about those extra few pounds you had hoped to lose, but it’s WAY easier to look your best if you focus your attention on showering your kids with love. Give them a snuggle, fly them up in the air, or play peek-a-boo. If you’ve hired a photographer, she will give you directions to help you look and feel your best!

4) GET YOUR PARTNER ON BOARD.

Before photo day comes, ask your partner to help you feel confident. Explain to him having photos of your family makes you feel loved and that you value having him being in the photos. Tell him he doesn’t need to smile at the camera the whole time or do things that make him feel uncomfortable; just ask him to love on you and your babies during the session. The relationship between the two of you sets the stage for a successful session and a genuinely happy evening.

6) CHOOSE CLOTHES THAT ARE COMFY AND FLATTERING.

Here are some quick clothing tips:

• Try the outfit on and have someone take a picture of you from different angles. We tend to choose our favorite angle in a mirror!
• Usually, if you feel good, you will look good! Choose clothing that gives you freedom of movement, keeps you warm or cool (depending on the season), and won’t require a lot of maintenance throughout your session.
• We don’t want your clothing to be too baggy or too tight. Properly fitted clothing looks put together and will show your shape. For women, your upper half and lower half should be balanced: so for instance, flowy shirt + skinny pants, or tight shirt + flowing maxi skirt.
• Add accessories! These are the quickest way to take your outfits from average to amazing. Think scarves, blazers, cardigans, belts, jewelry, fun socks, and hats.

Say yes to:

maxi dresses, fitted tops tucked into long skirts, A-line dresses/coats, skinny jeans, cardigans, blazers, scarves, ankle boots,  riding boots, fitted tunics

Say no to:

strapless, sleeveless (unless you love your arms), low-cut shirts, baggy clothes, chunky knits, cheap/flimsy fabrics

7) DRINK LOTS OF WATER IN THE DAYS BEFOREHAND.

Especially if you struggle with bloating, this tip is for you! In the week leading up to your session, drink about 100 ounces of water every day to keep yourself hydrated. Then the night before your photo session, reduce your water intake to the bare minimum. Works every time!

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