Let’s talk about family portraits! When was the last time you had them done? Why does it matter?
As a Chesapeake photographer, and mama to two little girls, I can tell you that they do!
We live in a world where we are constantly on the go. If we’re not shuttling our kids from one activity to the next, we’re busy with work or household chores or running errands. We hardly ever take a moment to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Before we know it, we look at our kids and they are not our sweet little toddlers anymore. They’ve grown into big kids, who think we’re old, outdated, and un-cool. Tell me, did you document your children’s sweet little kid stages before it was too late?
A family photoshoot may be a large investment. It may be hard to schedule into your busy life. But believe me, it’s an investment that’s worth it! What is your “why” when it comes to scheduling a family session? I’m going to take a moment and go over my top reasons for scheduling that session right now. Maybe you’ll agree with me and finally take the leap!
Why You Should Invest In A Family Portrait Session
1. You Are Documenting Life’s Precious Moments
I know it’s a cliche, but don’t let these moments slip away. Kids grow fast! How often have you gone to put a shirt on your child and it doesn’t fit? A shirt that they literally just wore last week! As cliche as it is, those sweet baby faces don’t last forever. Someday soon, all you’ll have left of them is the memories…and the photographs. Believe me, you’ll be so thankful you have those photos to help you remember these days!
2. They Let Children Know They Are Loved
Did you know that having family photographs in your house help children feel safe, loved, and cared for? Studies have shown that seeing themselves on the walls helps build children’s self-esteem. They get to see themselves as an important part of the family story, one that continues on as they grow and thrive.
3. Family Photos Make Great Gifts (And Christmas Cards!)
We all know how hard it is to shop for our own moms and mother-in-laws! As adults, they can just buy anything they need. But, giving them photos of their loved ones? Those are the gifts they will cherish. Just like with family photos on your own walls, gifting family photos helps extended family members feel involved and loved as well!
And the bonus? Family photos can easily be turned into Christmas cards to send to friends and family. Another great way of helping your loved ones feel connected to you!
4. You Can Be In The Photos
As scary as it may seem, family photos by a professional photographer are the perfect way to get yourself into the photo. Too often moms are the ones behind the camera, documenting their family’s lives. But years from now, when your kids look back on these photos for the memories, they’re going to wonder where you are. They won’t care what you looked like. They want to see their mom! Even better if you are working with a professional photographer. A professional can help you style the whole family; can get you in touch with a hair and makeup artist. In short, a professional photographer can make sure you look and feel your very best, making those memories even more special!
5. A Family Portrait Session Is An Experience
Everyone has a pretty good camera in their pocket. Phones are great for capturing those memories in the moment! But booking with a professional photographer is so much more! A photographer will work closely with you and your family. They will help you style yourselves so you look amazing. They will choose a location that is picture perfect. And they will capture so much more than the “everyone look at the camera and smile” moments. In my sessions, I’m always on the lookout for those sweet in-between moments. Those special hugs between siblings. The toddler looking deeply into your eyes. Photos from a family session are all about celebrating your family and they way you love each other!
A Family Portrait Session Is Worth The Investment
When it comes down to it, your family is worth the investment. Whether you want to document your family every year, every other year, or just at big milestones, be sure to plan ahead! I recommend saving for your family portrait session each month. Start putting away for it at the beginning of the year and by the time fall (and Christmas card season) rolls around, you will be able to make the investment without a second thought!
Five, ten, twenty years from now you won’t regret investing in family portraits. But believe me, you will regret it if you let these moments slip away!
To learn more about a Chesapeake family photography session, start here. I would absolutely love to work with you and your beautiful family!
