Florida Family Beach Photoshoot: Behind the Scenes
While on vacation in Florida, we got to experience what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens. I have a whole new appreciation for the apprehension and stress my families must feel on shoot day! From picking out matching outfits, to choosing a time that will be the least likely to promote a toddler meltdown, to making sure they’re fed and as happy as they can be—it’s all quite a lot.
Our extended family beach photoshoot was with the lovely and talented Jessica Pittman Photography. She has two small kiddos of her own, and since I have a 2 and 4-year-old, I was looking for someone who would understand and be able to help me navigate a potential meltdown. It turns out my instincts were right, because halfway through our photoshoot, my children found the ocean irresistible and got themselves soaked while searching for sand fleas! Jessica handled everything like a pro, and helped me gather them up for a few more photos (confession: we utilized bribes, but they work when you need them!)
I learned that you can plan as much as possible, but the most wonderful shots come out of letting go of your plans and embracing the wild chaos of your beautiful, unpredictable life.
I’m so thankful for the opportunity to walk in my clients’ shoes and experience what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens. Here’s what I learned and will give as advice to my next family photoshoot:
Bring a change of clothes, just in case your children run into the ocean and soak the carefully chosen matching outfits you spent weeks picking out.
Bring snacks! Even a baby pouch or a few crackers (or a box of tic tacs, as Jessica so wisely provided!) can help keep them smiling for just a few more photos.
Relax. The most beautiful photos come from those unstructured moments when your 4-year-old finds a sand flea in the ocean and gets so excited to show you!
Trust your photographer. I put my faith in Jessica, and let her do the posing, prompting, and arranging. I knew that she could see through her lens what I couldn’t, and because I trusted her, I was able to let go a bit and enjoy myself.
Meltdowns are okay! It’s fine to take a break when we need it, and if you have a sense of humor, those can make great photos too!
*These are photos I shot of my kiddos, but I’ll be sure to share Jessica’s photos when we get them!
