Asheville Family Photographer
Tips for a Successful Family Session
Are you planning a family photography session in the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway? With stunning mountain views and vibrant nature, it's no wonder why this location is a popular choice for family photos. However, planning a successful session in the mountains requires some careful consideration and preparation. One of the key elements to a successful session is color coordinating outfits, timing and how we approach capturing those candid moments. In this blog post, we will discuss the do's and don'ts of planning a mountain family photography session
Choose the Right Time of the Year
The ideal window for orchestrating a perfect mountain family photography session is undoubtedly during the bountiful spring and summer months. Picture it: longer daylight hours that allow you ample time to capture those enchanting sunset colors and soft light, which add a magical touch to your photos. The mountains are also at their finest during this time, boasting lush greenery and clear, azure skies that serve as a captivating backdrop.
But, as delightful as spring and summer can be, it's also a very busy tourist season. The mountain trails might be teeming with fellow nature enthusiasts, potentially crowding your shots. Which is why I offer session weekday. This simple adjustment could mean the difference between a chaotic background filled with strangers and serene, uncrowded landscapes.
Remember, the objective is to craft a relaxing and enjoyable experience, not to navigate through hordes of people. So, plan your mountain adventure when it's most favorable and convenient for you and your family. Your photos will be all the more memorable for it!.
Select an Accessible and Stunning Location
Choosing the ideal location for your family mountain photography involves striking a balance between ease of access and visual charm. Look for an area with panoramic views, diverse plant life, and possibly even a serene body of water for an unexpected touch in your photographs. But remember, an impressive background doesn't necessarily equate to a remote location. Select a site that's conveniently accessible, and ensures basic amenities like bathrooms and parking spaces are close by.
Your primary concern should be safety. Avoid hazardous zones with steep cliffs or unstable rocks. Despite their potential for dramatic photos, they might present significant dangers, particularly if you have children in tow.
The correct place can elevate your photos from mundane to magnificent. But ultimately, what truly matters isn't the location, but the memories you create and the stories you narrate through your pictures. So, select a location that suits your family, where you can unwind, enjoy yourselves, and capture your authentic smiles. Because, indeed, a photo can speak a thousand words.
Coordinate Your Outfits with the Mountain Scenery
When it comes to wardrobe selection for your mountain family photography session, bear in mind that your choice can significantly influence your photos. Your outfits should harmonize with the natural hues of the mountain landscape. Picture how earth tones, pastels, or soft, muted colors would gracefully blend with the surroundings, creating a cohesive visual narrative.
In contrast, dressing your family in matching outfits might seem tempting, but it often results in a static, uniform look. Instead, consider coordinating your outfits. For instance, if one family member wears a light blue shirt, another could wear dark blue pants. This way, you achieve a balanced look with just enough diversity to keep your photos engaging.
Comfort and practicality are also key. Dress in a way that enables you to move freely, hike with ease, and adjust to temperature fluctuations. As mountain weather can be unpredictable, layering your clothing is a wise strategy. This allows you to peel off or add layers as needed. And remember, your mountain adventure might involve a bit of dust, dirt, or damp grass.
Footwear deserves careful consideration too. Pick shoes that are both comfortable and suitable for the mountain terrain. Safety should always come first, even when it comes to your choice of shoes.
Above all, your clothing choices should reflect your family's unique style and personality. Don't stress too much over achieving a perfect look. Instead, focus on representing who you are as a family. Authenticity never goes out of style and translates beautifully in photographs.
What is the best time of day to take photos in the mountains?
Often referred to as the "golden hour", sunrise and sunset are widely considered the best times to photograph in the mountains. During these hours, the low-angle sunlight paints the landscape with a soft, warm glow and elongates shadows, adding depth and dimension to your photos. Sunrise, with its peaceful ambiance and fewer crowds, offers a serene setting for your photoshoot. On the other hand, sunset brings with it an array of mesmerizing colors, from warm gold to deep purple, providing a dramatically stunning backdrop for your family portraits. However, this isn't to say that midday shoots are off the table. While the harsh overhead sun can create strong shadows and overexposed images, a slightly overcast day can act as a natural diffuser, evenly distributing light and allowing for vibrant, well-balanced shots. Therefore, always keep a keen eye on the sky and be ready to adapt to the ever-changing mountain weather for a successful photography session.
What to bring?
When venturing into the mountains for a photography session, it's essential to pack smart. Bring along your child's favorite snacks to keep their energy levels up and keep hunger-induced mood swings at bay. Snacks can also be a great motivator or a handy distraction during breaks between shots.
Along the same lines, incorporating things your children love can add a touch of personalization to your photos. A cherished teddy bear, a beloved book, or even a favorite superhero cape can add a fun and playful element to your photos. These familiar objects can also provide comfort to your kids in an unfamiliar environment, ensuring their genuine smiles shine through in your photos. Equally important is being prepared for the outdoor elements. Pack ample sunscreen to shield your family from the harsh summer sun, especially during peak hours. Remember, sunburns don't make for happy photos! Also, mountains can be a haven for bugs, so don't forget to bring bug spray to keep those pesky intruders at bay.
Staying hydrated is especially important in the summer heat and at higher altitudes. So, ensure you have plenty of water on hand. Hydrated kids are happier, more energetic, and more likely to cooperate during your photo session. So, stay prepared to ensure a fun, stress-free photo session.
Be Patient and Enjoy the Experience
The final, yet crucial tip for a successful mountain family photography session is to exercise patience and savor every moment. Weather in the mountains can be a tricky playmate – one moment it’s sunny, the next, it’s cloudy. Kids, too, can have their temperamental swings. But don't let these minor hitches put a damper on your experience. The key is to remain adaptable and maintain a positive attitude. There's no need to rush the process or insist on getting the 'perfect' shot.
Instead, breathe in the fresh mountain air, appreciate the majestic vistas, and relish in the joyous chaos of family fun. Delight in your children’s laughter echoing through the valleys or their wonderstruck expressions at the sight of a fluttering butterfly or a brightly colored wildflower.
Even seemingly imperfect moments can turn into beautiful, candid photos that tell a rich and authentic story of your family. When you look back at these pictures years down the line, it won't just be the beautifully composed shots that will catch your eye. The real treasures will be those unguarded, heartfelt moments where your family's bond, love, and joy are most evident.
So, keep in mind that it's not just about capturing the perfect frame, but about soaking up the entire experience. Revel in the togetherness, the breathtaking surroundings, and the shared adventure. Remember, it’s these precious moments spent with your loved ones in the heart of nature that will make your mountain family photography session genuinely remarkable. Patience and positivity, coupled with a generous dash of fun, will not only make for a successful photoshoot but also ensure your family's smiles reach your eyes, radiating pure, unadulterated happiness in your photos.
Are you ready to book your 2024 family session experience?. Let's talk!
Xoxo,
Daniela Guerrero.
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