Got Your Holiday Cards Yet?
Are you thinking I'm nuts? Holiday Cards? Have you been to Hobby Lobby lately? They've had their fall decorations out since early summer and Christmas decorations out for several weeks. Summer vacations are over, school is back in session, and even though it's difficult here in North Texas with our temps still in the mid 90s to think about the holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner.
Since many of you are likely already thinking along these lines, let me offer a few tips that will make your planning easier!
1. Book early, avoid last minute rushing and stress and allow enough time to order cards and get them mailed. You may also be glad to have prints for Christmas gifts or maybe even a nice wall portrait for yourself!
2. Planning
a. Plan your family's outfits a few weeks in advance so you can coordinate pieces and aren't scrambling at the last minute.
b. Schedule haircuts a couple of weeks in advance of your session to avoid that just cut look but it will still be neat and tidy.
c. And if you color your hair, get that done within a week or two. Roots are always more noticeable in photos.
3. Location, Location, Location
Where would you like to be photographed? In the studio or on location? Maybe in front of your home. Or maybe your family enjoys going to a park and you have fun memories there. If you don't have a specific location in mind, your photographer will be glad to make suggestions.
4. Be mindful of the attention span of your family members and plan accordingly, and that includes Dad as well! Give everyone a heads up and let them be involved in the planning and making suggestions. Let them have some personal time in advance of the session and feed them so they are rested and not distracted by hunger pangs. Bringing snacks and drink pouches for little ones is always a good idea.
5. Have fun with your session. Got a fun idea for a photo that shows your family's personality or is representative of an event from the past year, bring it on! These can be fun to include on your holiday cards and make for a fun memory!
To Wrap this up - here's your checklist:
1. Schedule Family photo session, selecting date, time, and location.
2. Plan outfits. Purchase any items needed. Ensure everything fits.
3. Involve family in planning, especially for fun ideas.
4. Schedule hair cuts/coloring a couple of weeks in advance.
5. Day of photo session -
a. Give everyone time to rest and relax a bit.
b. Make sure everyone has eaten and isn't starving.
c. Pack snacks and drinks for the little ones.
d. Allow adequate time to arrive a few minutes early and not be flustered.
e. Relax and enjoy this family time together!
f. Pat yourself on the back for mission accomplished! Way to go!!