I’m a pretty laid back mother, I think most people that know me would agree. That said, there is something that turns this carefree mother into a frazzled, sweating, screaming, threatening, lunatic MonsterMommy—FAMILY PICTURES! I don’t know what it is about getting our picture taken that sends me over the edge. I don’t know if it’s that I have to relinquish control to someone else, or if it’s the thought that it costs a pretty penny and I want the money to be well spent. Whatever the case, I usually have a throbbing headache by the end and my husband isn’t talking to me…which is why I wanted to write this post…this is the first step in admitting I have a problem.
So, how do you take a family photo without killing your children or getting the evil eye from your husband?
1. Hire a fantastic photographer!
I have been lucky to have found someone I trust. We have used Tracy many times now and I can honestly say that I have loved everything she’s done for us. What makes these sessions better than getting a photo done at say, the mall, is that we’ve established a relationship with Tracy. She knows us and likes us (or at least likes my kids and husband...I might drive her nuts *wink wink*). She also knows specifically what we are looking for and how to get it. If you’re going to spend the money and time it takes to get a great photo you need to really trust the person. You also need to feel confident that they understand what you’re hoping to achieve in the shoot. In my experience, I always left the "mall" places feeling disappointed. They always seemed to miss the shots I was hoping for and tried to sell me on shots I would never have displayed. After a personal photo session with Tracy I often couldn't decide which ones I wanted because there were so many fantastic shots--I wanted them all! When you hire someone you know and trust it makes an enormous difference in the quality of the pictures taken. You wouldn’t hire a stranger to be your dentist, so don’t let one take your cherished family pictures either.
2. Stop being the trouble maker!
Because I am guilty of this I feel like I can write freely about this topic. Most of the time YOU, yes YOU mom are the most difficult person in the shoot—not your child. The stress you’re feeling sabotages everyone else. When you give up control and let the photographer do their job you’re bound to have a better session. I think Tracy would agree that yelling at your children to smile is probably not the best route to take! In fact I’ve never seen Tracy ask my kids to smile, but they always do.
If you’re ready to say cheese, I’ve got the gal for you! Tracy is available to travel throughout the US and Canada. Clients have even flown directly to her from all over the US—I’m telling you she’s that good!
SuperMommies that book a session with Tracy will receive a FREE 5x5 designer Leather Brag Book with 10 images! ($250 value) **A code will be emailed to you when you subscribe by email to this site. You will need this code when you book your session to receive the free gift**
* You must book your session for 2009 by May 30th (the session can take place anytime in 2009)
