Golden hour photo sessions can create STUNNING images. For many families, capturing photos at sunset with children may feel tricky as it’s later in the evening. This blog offers 5 tips to prepare the whole family for a stress-free golden hour photoshoot.

What is golden hour?

The golden hour is a magical time that takes place right before sunset. The sun sits low in the sky, casting a gentle, warm, golden glow that is ideal for capturing breathtaking photos. The light during the golden hour is soft and diffused, casting long, delicate shadows that enhance the depth and texture of your photographs. It is often regarded as the best time for outdoor photography due to its beautiful and flattering light. We are passionate about shooting during golden hour, as it has the ability to turn an ordinary scene into something magical!

Tips for a stress-free golden hour photoshoot:

1) Ensure your children get plenty of rest and food

Adjusting sleep and food schedules can be challenging, especially when dealing with children who thrive on routines. To ensure a well-rested toddler during golden hour, consider pushing nap time later or incorporating an extra nap. Every family’s approach may vary, with some gradually adjusting schedules early in the week, while others stick to their usual routine. To prevent crankiness, it’s advisable to have a meal before the session and pack non-messy snacks for the journey to keep everyone satisfied during the shoot.

We’re all for whatever bribes you offer before the session to get your kids excited, however we highly recommend refraining from use of ANY screens or snacks at ANY point in the session. Once a child gets a taste of Bluey or Cheez-Its, it’s hard to pull them away from the screen or snack bag.

We will have mini marshmallows on hand for those kiddos who need a little extra help during the session. They’re white (and small) so camouflage easily into teeth! But, if you do not want this emergency treat option, let us know – we will absolutely respect your decision.

2) Have a relaxed day

Keeping the day very chilled and relaxed before a golden hour photoshoot can prevent exhaustion and ensure that the kids are energized and cooperative during the shoot. By steering clear of over-scheduling activities and incorporating some downtime, you can help the kids remain relaxed and in a positive mood for the photoshoot. This approach ensures they have the energy and enthusiasm to fully enjoy the experience and create lovely memories with the family.

3) Bring Pajamas

To make transitioning to bedtime easier, bring pajamas along for the ride. There’s something delightful about having a pajama party in the car. This simple yet often overlooked step helps kids unwind and relax after a fun-filled evening. The comfort of cozy pajamas can help calm children down and prepare them for bedtime. Plus, it saves you a step when you arrive home. You might even find the kids falling asleep in the car, allowing you to transfer them directly to bed. Congratulations on a fantastic evening, kick back, and unwind after a busy night.

4) Try something new and exciting

Introducing a new location, outfit, or prop can inject excitement and creativity into golden hour family photos.

• A new location can be exciting for the kids, plus being able to witness sunset is a fun experience for kids who otherwise miss out because they are asleep.
  
• A new outfit can excite some kids. Incorporating something into their outfit that you know will bring them happiness is always a plus! For example, our daughters always love a good twirl dress and the boys love anything with pockets to store their found treasures.
  
• A new prop, such as a blanket, basket, bouquet, hat, purse, or fairy wand, can introduce a fun touch for children’s photoshoots. Props contribute to creating special moments and interactions that reflect the family’s happiness and individuality. Assigning the child the responsibility of the prop during the session can encourage more cooperation.

5) Manage Expectations

It is natural to strive for perfection in your photoshoot, considering the time and money you have invested in it. But the most important thing is to be prepared for the unexpected, such as someone tripping or having a meltdown. Your job, as parents, is to keep calm, deflect and help the kids stay engaged. If you are relaxed, your kids will be too and that will reflect beautifully in the photos.

This is a lifestyle shoot, so expect genuine and unfiltered moments, even unexpected ones. As professionals, we will expertly capture these moments. Remember, in photography, there is beauty in imperfections. Embrace the spontaneity and authenticity of capturing moments with your children. Trust our expertise, and let us create stunning images that authentically represent your family. Embrace the process and cherish the unique story that unfolds during your golden hour photoshoot.

To Summarise

Don’t miss out on capturing stunning photos during golden hour sunsets just because of concerns about your children’s behavior.

Instead of worrying, embrace the lively moments and seize the genuine joy and playfulness. Allow them to play, laugh, and be carefree, and you might be amazed by the magical moments your photographer captures during the golden hour. Remember, the spontaneity and imperfections of childhood are what make those memories truly special.

So now that you know how to have a stress-free golden hour photoshoot reach out to your photographer, book a session and bask in the golden light!

FULL-SERVICE PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS IN THE WOODLANDS, TX, NORTH OF HOUSTON

If you’re in the Greater Houston area and looking for a family photoshoot, contact us for more information. From wardrobe and styling to creating artwork for your home, our full-service photography business takes care of all the details. Contact Us

Have a look through our family photoshoots HERE