Preparing for Family Photos in Florida

Hi there, friends! As your go-to Florida lifestyle photographer, Sugar Lens Studio is dedicated to capturing the unique beauty of your family in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re looking to preserve those special family moments or document your everyday life with a natural, lifestyle approach, I’m here to ensure your photos are nothing short of stunning. Here’s how you can prepare for your session and make the most out of your time with me.

Understanding the Florida Weather

Florida’s weather can be both a blessing and a challenge for photography. As an experienced Florida family photographer that primarily works in outdoor settings, I know how to work with the elements to capture the best shots.
        •       Monitor the Weather: Always check the forecast a few days before your session. Florida’s climate is known for sudden rain showers, but with the right planning, we can still achieve beautiful results.
        •       Stay Prepared: Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and a light jacket if necessary. A stylish umbrella can also double as a prop in case of light rain, adding a fun, spontaneous element to your photos.

Don’t worry, I am monitoring these things right alongside you! Flexibility is key with outdoor shoots so I encourage my clients to not overbook themselves on shoot days - sometimes we may need to shift our session times forwards/backwards slightly to adjust to Mother Nature. Safety is always the top priority so if the weather poses any risks, we will reschedule or move locations to ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable.

Choosing the Right Clothing

What you wear plays a big role in how your photos turn out. I recommend keeping comfort and coordination in mind.

• Opt for Breathable Fabrics: Florida’s warm climate makes light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen ideal. These materials will keep you comfortable and looking fresh throughout the session.

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Choose a color palette that complements your family’s style and the natural surroundings. Soft, neutral tones often work well for both family and lifestyle photography in Florida’s outdoor settings.

• Choose Patterns Wisely: Avoid loud patterns, logos, and tiny prints, as they photograph well and can create a distracting moiré effect (a visual glitch that can make photos look less sharp and more distracting, a sort of “wavy” and distorted pattern).

• Durability (yes, durability!): Delicate clothing, while beautiful, may not be the best choice based off your session location. Avoid anything too fragile or restrictive - clothing that can’t handle a splash of saltwater, a bit of sand, or a touch of sweat may be best left at home.

• Practical Footwear: Whether we’re shooting on the beach or in a park, comfortable shoes are key, especially for the kids. You can bring a change of footwear for variety if needed.

Need a little extra help with wardrobe planning? I got you! Sugar Lens Studio can provide a customized Style Guide for your family to reference when choosing pieces!

Leveraging Natural and Artificial Lighting

The key to good photos is LIGHTING!
        •       Golden Hour Glow: The golden hour, which occurs just after sunrise and just before sunset, offers the most flattering light for outdoor photography. This time of day is ideal for capturing the warmth and beauty of your family in a natural setting.
        •       Indoor and Artificial Lighting: If we’re shooting indoors or if the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t worry. I will use professional lighting techniques to ensure your photos are just as beautiful, maintaining the authentic feel that’s signature to lifestyle photography.

Can’t swing those golden hour times? I get it. We can shoot at any time of day, it’s just important to understand what your expectations are for your photos! Little to no cloud cover or shade and high sun can create some serious shadows due to the harsh light but it will capture bright, vibrant colors and create a high-contrast look.

Preparing Your Kids for the Session

Kids can be unpredictable, we know that! But with a little preparation and patience, they’ll be ready to shine in front of the camera.
        •       Comfort is Key: Make sure your kids are well-rested and have had a snack before the session. A happy, comfortable child is more likely to enjoy the experience, which will reflect in the photos. Hint: if your little dislikes wearing a certain fabric (“it’s itchy”) or article of clothing (aka shoes), consider waiting to dress them until you’re on location to avoid sensory overload before the session even begins.
        •       Practice Makes Perfect: Try some fun practice poses at home to get them used to the idea of being photographed. This can help reduce any shyness and make the session more enjoyable for everyone.
        •       Bring a Favorite Toy: Having a favorite toy or small treat on hand can keep your child engaged and happy. We can even incorporate these items into the photos for a personal touch that captures your child’s personality.

Kids not feelin’ it during the shoot? Don’t stress, friend. Some of the BEST photos are the candid ones where you and your littles are just.. existing, talking, playing, snuggling. There’s zero pressure from me and I work hard to maintain a relaxed, fun vibe so that your kiddos don’t get anxious. M&M’s are also great tools for cooperation, just sayin’!

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your family photo session with a Florida lifestyle photographer like Sugar Lens Studio doesn’t have to be stressful. With these tips, you’ll be ready to relax, have fun, and let me capture those special moments that you’ll treasure forever.
If you’re looking to book a session or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Sugar Lens Studio, I’m here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your session is a joyful and memorable experience. Let’s create beautiful memories together in the heart of Florida!