Erie Family Photo Hacks: Capture Memories, Not Meltdowns (Seriously, No More Meltdowns!)
Hey Erie families!
Chris Zdarko here, your friendly neighborhood photographer. We all know family photos can be magical... or melt-down-inducing. But fear not! With a few handy hacks, you can capture genuine smiles, playful interactions, and memories that will last a lifetime.
“I give props to Chris for working with me and my crazy kiddos! We did family photos and to say the kids were crazy is an understatement! But he went with the flow, was patient, and caught some great photos in our unexpected moments!”
Prep Like a Pro:
Location, location, location: Whether it's Presque Isle's sandy shores or your cozy living room, choose a familiar and comfortable environment for everyone.
Outfit coordination: Ditch the matchy-matchy (unless it's your thing!). Opt for complementary colors and comfortable clothes that allow for movement.
Fuel the fun: Pack snacks, water, and maybe even a few distraction toys to keep little ones happy and cooperative.
Embrace spontaneity: Don't stress over perfection. Sometimes the most genuine moments unfold naturally.
Meltdown Management:
Set realistic expectations: Kids will be kids! Accept there might be some tears or tantrums and roll with it.
Bribery is your friend (sometimes): A sticker for a smile, a quick candy break – sometimes a little incentive goes a long way.
Teamwork makes the dream work: Divide and conquer! Let grandparents or siblings help wrangle the kiddos while the photographer focuses on capturing moments.
Take breaks: Feeling overwhelmed? Step back, regroup, and try again later. Remember, it's about capturing family love, not creating chaos.
Natural Posing:
Ditch the stiff poses: Encourage interaction and play! Candid moments often tell the best stories.
Get down to their level: Literally! Kneeling or sitting puts you eye-to-eye with the kids, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
Incorporate props: Bubbles, frisbees, even a family pet can spark genuine smiles and playful moments.
Focus on fun: Laughter is contagious! Make jokes, play games, and create an environment where everyone enjoys themselves.
Remember, Erie families, the most important ingredient is love!
When you focus on having fun and connecting with each other, the photos will naturally capture the magic.
