PHOTOSHOOT

My photoshoots are far from stiff and static—they are lifestyle and partly documentary. I encourage interactions between family members, like hugs, touches, gentle kisses, playful moments (especially with children), and instances of closeness. The focus is on natural connections rather than perfect, stiff poses facing the camera. I adjust the flow of the session to match the family dynamics, needs, and the surrounding environment.

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That said, I will still guide you through specific poses. I may ask you to place your hands a certain way, adjust your posture, or swap sides to create a visually pleasing arrangement. I’ll also ask you to look at the camera, at each other, or to share a smile, hug, or gentle kiss with your partner or children (if you're comfortable with that). During this time, I want you to feel relaxed and be yourselves, thinking of the photoshoot as a fun family activity—a chance to enjoy quality time together, rather than focusing on my camera.

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The photoshoot typically lasts 1 to 1,5 hours, during which I’ll capture family photos, lively portraits of all family members, children together, parents together, and candid moments. I also love taking detail shots, action shots, and overall scenery to provide a variety of pictures for you to choose from. Depending on the light and surroundings, we may move to different spots in the area to get the best shots.

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YOUNGER CHILDREN

I have two young children myself, so I understand how challenging it can be to get them to cooperate in front of a camera, especially with a stranger. Your attitude often reflects on your children, so try to stay positive, relaxed, and lower your shoulders. See the photoshoot as a fun event rather than something to be anxious about. Your children will likely adopt a similar attitude.

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It helps to prepare your children beforehand for the photoshoot, as much as possible. You can explain the purpose (“we’ll have a nice photo to send to grandma, or to frame and put on the wall, decorate your room, or make a calendar or gift”). This can help them develop a positive attitude and even look forward to it. Explaining the photographer’s job and the equipment may also help them understand the person chasing them with a big, “scary” camera and asking them to do simple tasks (like hugging mom).

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I completely understand that children can be shy, nervous, or anxious around strangers, or alternatively, they might be full of energy, misbehaving, or showing off. If they lose interest or aren’t fully engaged, don’t worry—that’s normal. Instead of becoming upset or commanding them, try engaging them in a fun play or game. You could carry them, tickle them, make funny faces, or be more physical if you're comfortable (like swinging them between parents, tossing them in the air, holding them upside down, or playing airplane). These activities often shift them out of a grumpy mood and provide me with great opportunities to take pictures before we return to more relaxed portraits and family photos. Of course, it's perfectly fine to take breaks for refreshments, snacks, or outfit and nappy changes to keep everyone happy.

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CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES

The clothes you wear will inevitably be part of the photos—they help define you and reflect your personality. My recommendation is to wear nice, but comfortable clothes and shoes. As my photo sessions can be dynamic, your clothes should allow for freedom of movement.

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I don’t offer specific advice on clothing, makeup, or hairstyles because personal style and taste are uniquely yours. However, I do recommend avoiding clothes with bold patterns, graphics, or large lettering (unless they serve a specific purpose, such as children’s names on sweaters). These elements can distract and take attention away from the overall photo. Similarly, I discourage bright, neon colors unless absolutely necessary. Also, unless there’s a medical reason, I recommend avoiding face creams to prevent shiny spots on the skin. Often, a "less is more" and "there's beauty in simplicity" approach works best.

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As for clothing choices, it’s a good idea to coordinate similar color tones among family members, but it’s not a strict requirement. Warm colors are great for autumn, while blue tones work well for photos in the winter, by the sea or mountains to complement the environment. For very green settings (like forests or meadows), contrasting colors such as purple, blue, or red are advisable.

Please remove watches, hairbands, and bulky items (like phones or car keys) from your wrists and pockets. If you have loose hair, bringing a hairbrush can be helpful in case it gets disheveled during the shoot.

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OTHER INFORMATION

I encourage you to also read the Terms of Service for Abrakadabra Photodesign, which clarifies, among other things, the privacy policy, handling of personal data, and storage of the photos I take. This will also be addressed in a Photography Agreement that I will provide and kindly ask you to review and sign before the photoshoot takes place.

 

 

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or anything you’re curious about, either before or during the photoshoot. I’m excited to work together and create beautiful photos that you’ll love and cherish for years to come.

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