Outdoor Sunset Family Session - Tips to help kids prepare for a session at bed time

Outdoor sunset sessions can be challenging for the little ones because the preferred start time is usually around bed time. Starting your session later in the day is important because of the lighting. Photography is basically all about the lighting and the best light happens closer to sun down. Nothing beats the last couple hours of the day because the light is soft and more versatile than mid day. The images you see in my porfolio outdoors, that you love, were taken within a few hours of sunset.

To help you child be prepared for their outdoor sunset session…

• Push nap time to later in the day so they can be rested for the session.

• Keep your day low key, no trips to the zoo, hiking or long day running errands.

• Make sure that your kids have a full belly.

• Have some mess free snacks available like small candies, a little special incentive and energy boost!

• Choose a location that your kids have not been to as a fun new place to explore.

• Bring a comfort item for them to pull out as a surprise if needed

• Arrive to your session earlier than you need to help avoid falling asleep in the car.

• Be positive and let go of expectations. Your energy will dictate your children’s reactions and mood.

• Choose a photographer that has fun in the forefront of their session experience and tricks up their sleeve for tough situations.

Make sure that you choose a photographer that is able to work through anything. Personally I have a very active and expressive child. She is beyond independent and marches to her own drum most of the time. She has definitely prepared me for an-y-thing! Working with me means that I will roll with your vide and always let your kids have space. I believe that kids need to be allowed to be themselves. I am able to capture amazing moments even if you think that everything is going wrong. Remember that!

What questions or concerns do you still have after reading these tips? Let me know in the comments below. I would love to discuss those with you.

XOXO Brooke!