**All portraits in this post by White Linen Photographers**
y friend Michele has photographed my little family three times now: once when I was expecting Penny, once when Penny was a few months old, and, most recently, a few weeks ago: Penny about 14.5 months, and expecting baby number two.
For the first two sessions, I had what I now realize was ‘lots’ of time: shopping and planning for portraits while pregnant, and then with a small baby isn’t too difficult. But this time, with a crazy summer schedule of work and travel, and Penny at a much busier age, I finally got a more realistic experience of how it can feel to be one of my own family portrait clients: a busy mom with busy kids and a busy schedule, trying to find time to coordinate outfits etc. We’ll see what I learn when the next baby is here!
Here are my thoughts on how it went: what I did right, what I did wrong, and the final result.
I chose a photographer I loved & trusted, who Adam and I were both comfortable with: I love photographing the same clients year after year. I get to know their family dynamics, understand what they are looking for, and get to know the kids. Adam is not a fan of being in front of the camera, but at least he knows Michele and what a session with her looks like (having been photographed by her twice previously). It made the whole experience much more relaxed.
I booked a hair & makeup artist: I followed what I do for my own clients and booked one of my favourite stylists, Rae. It was one less thing to worry about, and she did a way better job than I could ever hope to do. :)
I followed the simple steps I give my clients for easily coordinating wardrobe: Begin with the women: A dress (solid or patterned, any length or style, as long as you love it and how it looks on you). Men: Solid coloured jeans/slacks/shorts + shirt/sweater (patterned or solid if mom’s dress is one colour, or in a solid colour if mom’s dress is patterned). Baby/Kids: Simple pieces, in neutral colours or complementary tones to mom or dad’s outfit.
We had a really busy day!: I always tell my clients to try to plan a relaxing shoot day. But because of work, travel schedules and weather, the only day that worked for us was a day that Adam and I were both working all day, and also heading out to Victoria the next morning! Babies pick up on stress, and I know Penny would have been in a slightly better mood if I’d been able to have a nice slow day with her at home.
Here are some of my favourites:
Photographer: White Linen Photographers
Hair & Makeup: Rae Pelat
