As a mom, I KNOW that family photos can be stressful to plan for. You have to plan outfits, find the photographer that will create what you have in your head, and get everyone on board. As a photographer, I try my best to make family photos as easy possible for my clients. We talk about locations all over the area such as parks in Idaho Falls, St. Anthony Sand Dunes, Rexburg, and mountain locations and find one that’s perfect for your family. There are so many possibilities in Idaho.  I try to always get the traditional photo of everyone looking at the camera, but also try and mix it up with photos that portray the dynamics of the family. Are you goofy and fun? We will get some of you laughing and acting natural with each other.

The Comeau family is spread out all over the United States. It was a pleasure to get them together at the St. Anthony Sand Dunes and capture photos that represent their family. They are a fun-loving, happy, and creative family.

Here are some tips I suggest for all family photos though:

1- Color. Think of a color combo that won’t be distracting from your faces. Pastels, analogous, and soft colors always look great. Look at a classic color wheel and choose colors that are right next to each other. It creates color harmony. And then add one color across the color wheel from the analogous colors you chose. It creates a punch of interest. You also want to bounce colors. If mom has a purple scarf, try to have someone else wear that same purple like a skirt or a shirt. Adding a bounce of color create visual interest.

2- Think of your location. If you are doing green mountains and trees, you might want to stay away from green clothing. Adding texture to photos through backgrounds is a definite plus.

3- Tell your family photos start 30 minutes before the session begins. Someone is always late. Haha.

4- If you have toddlers or babies just know that your session will be different. It may be more difficult to get them looking at the camera and smiling. We work with the child. We let them call some of the shots. And that’s okay. That’s your family, right? We will create photos that show your family authentically.

5- Be ready for lots of hugs and squeezes. I love to capture the connection between family members.