6 Reasons to do Family Photos in Your Own Home This Winter
Of course I love photographing families among the beautiful outdoor scenery here in the Pacific Northwest all year round, but there’s also something so special about photographing families in their own homes. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider doing your next family photo session in your home.
YOUR HOME TELLS YOUR STORY
Ever looked back on a photo of you in your childhood home or that first apartment you had with your partner and felt a comforting sense of nostalgia? That’s because our homes are meaningful cornerstones for the seasons of our lives, and the way we choose to present them says so much about who we are and what matters to us. Each home is as unique as its family, so when you choose it as the location for your photo session it aids in the telling of your family’s one-of-a-kind story.
2. YOU CAN STAY WARM AND COZY INDOORS
All of us Pacific Northwest residents are well acquainted with the unpredictability of the weather, especially during the cold seasons. Forecasts often go back and forth and change at the last minute, and honestly as a local photographer I’d say that a big chunk of my job is just trying to predict the weather. That’s why it can be such a big relief both for me and my clients to do in-home sessions so even if there are torrential downpours or 35+ mph winds it won’t affect the session.
3. You can incorporate your favorite family activities and traditions
Do you love to make forts, play dress up, or cook recipes together at home? Do you like to wrestle in the living room or jump on the trampoline in the backyard? These are all activities that would make for such fun family photos! The whole point of having family photos done is to document what life is like for your family in that season, so what better approach than to photograph you all spending quality time together in the ways you normally do in day-to-day life?
During the holidays this is especially fun because you can incorporate traditions like decorating the tree, baking/decorating cookies, hanging up lights, or whatever else you love to do together during the holiday season.
4. No need to pack up or travel
Much of the responsibility involved in preparing for family photo sessions is getting everyone ready and out the door in time, but what if you never had to leave? What if you just got everyone cleaned up, did some light tidying, and stayed in the comfort of your home? This is absolutely something you can do! Remember that your home does not need to be “picture perfect” to be worthy of being the location for your session. As long as items that would be distracting in the background are able to be moved or kept out of frame you have nothing to worry about! I also have lighting equipment to use if your home doesn’t get a lot of natural light or the session is during darker hours.
5. Your child(ren) might feel more comfortable at home
Especially if your child is shy, having family photos done in the comfort of your own home can help them feel more comfortable. They will have access to their favorite toys, cozy blankets, and everything will just feel more familiar to them. The way your child feels during their session makes all of the difference in capturing photos that showcase their lovable personalities.
6. Easy access to your whole wardrobe
For my outdoor sessions I do bring a portable changing room to allow for outfit changes at any location, but how much easier would that be if your own closet was right around the corner? Using multiple outfits is a great way to get the most variety out of a session, and when your whole closet is right there next to you it really doesn’t get any easier than that!
Which reason do you like best? Ready to get your in-home family photo session scheduled? Now is the perfect time!