My family is getting ready for an in home photo session soon and I'm so excited!  I know I will love and treasure the photos that we will get (from my crazy- talented photographer friend, Shannon Jockel!).  However, soon after I scheduled our session a slight sense of panic set in. I realized that if I wasn't careful I was going to very quickly slide down the depths of the long dark rabbit hole of unending home improvements, obsessive furniture rearrangement, and deep-cleaning misery.  I then realized that this is probably exactly what most of my photography clients start thinking after they schedule a family session in their home, OR why they decide not to do one in the first place!  So, after I climbed myself right out of that rabbit hole I decided to just do what I want all my clients to do when I come to their homes.  I want you to keep it simple and relaxed, so your connection with each other comes through, and your joy and laughter flow freely. So, here are few simple things you can do to prepare for your in home lifestyle session that do NOT include making a massive list of home remodeling projects to be done in four days!
 

1) Prepare you home in the same way you would if a few close friends or family members were coming over for a visit, or as if you were having a relaxing evening at home together.  Put on some music if you want, light a scented candle if that's your thing, purchase some pretty flowers for your kitchen table, and stash away that giant pile of clean laundry on your couch (ok, that last one is for me!).  Just do what makes you and your family feel most at ease, comfortable, and happiest in your home.  
2) Think about the activities, items, and spaces in your home that mean something to your people.  Maybe little man has a favorite stuffed animal that he carries everywhere with him, your teenager loves to draw at her desk, or your family spends multiple hours every week playing dice games at the kitchen table.  Gather those items and let me know about the spaces and moments that are important to your family story.  We will find ways to make them part of your session.

3) Keep your outfits simple.  Have the person that is most concerned (or excited!) about their clothing choices decide on their outfit first. Everyone else can be sure their outfit coordinates and doesn't match exactly.  Neutrals with pops of color and mixing in different textures and simple patterns is always a good way to keep things simple. Also, you may want to think about the colors you already have in your home and choose your color palate in that way. I, for one, couldn't be more excited about not having to be sure everyone has clean and acceptable shoes!  We will be going barefoot at our in home session. 
 

4) Be ready to give me a tour!  I will take a little tour of your home when I arrive just to check out where the best light is!  If we need to rearrange anything, open more curtains or blinds, or stash items out of the way to make the most of the natural light in your home we will do it then.  

That is it my friends! Do not stress. Do not make massive to-do lists.  Do NOT demo your kitchen!  Book that in home session and just be together with your family in your favorite place.  I promise you will love the photos and the memories made.  

Want to book your session with me?  Have more questions?  Send me a message!