406.580.6176
Belgrade, MT. 59714
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Tips for a great portrait session with Songs of Life Photography in Belgrade, MT.

Tips on How to Have a Great Portrait Session

Montana Family & Lifestyle Photographer

EXPLORE SESSIONS

Capturing the Beauty in Your Everyday Life

Wondering how to make your portrait session feel relaxed, meaningful, and fun? At Songs of Life Photography, I know that great images begin long before the camera comes out. By getting to know your family ahead of time and focusing on your natural expressions, connections, and love for one another, I help create a session experience that feels easy and enjoyable.

The goal is to give you space to simply be yourselves while your family’s story unfolds in front of the lens. While no session can be guaranteed to go exactly as planned, my approach is centered on creating a calm atmosphere where you can connect, laugh, and make memories together.

Below, you’ll find a few helpful tips for having a great portrait session. Take a look, and let’s plan a beautiful experience for you and your loved ones.

 

 

Family lifestyle photography portrait session tips from Songs of Life Photography in Belgrade, MT.
Expressive portrait session planning for families and small businesses in Belgrade, Montana.
Natural Family lifestyle photography sessions designed to tell your story in Belgrade, MT.

Timing

Timing is always important to consider when it comes to photography, especially when children are involved. Timing can be the difference between a frustrating session and an enjoyable, memorable one.

So, when is the best time to have your portrait session?

During Pleasant Weather

If you are planning on an outdoor session, I do my best to schedule it during pleasant weather. If it is too hot outside (above 85 usually!) you might get sweaty and uncomfortable. If it's too cold outside, you and your kiddos might not do well at all, and that will show in the photos. No matter the season, know I try to plan accordingly!

After a Meal

Make sure your children and all adults are well fed before the session. If they're hungry, they might start to get a little "hangry". If you are planning on going to dinner after our session, give your kids a healthy snack before the session and pack along some snacks just in case. I usually schedule sessions around 9am in the morning and 4pm in the afternoon for these reasons.

When your Children are Well Rested

I know this is challenging for young children, so I do my best to work around nap times so children can be well rested for their photo session. And, this goes for adults, too! Being tired often makes a person grouchy and uncomfortable and this will definitely show in the photos. Besides, I want your experience to be enjoyable, not uncomfortable or upsetting.

Happy Children

As any parent knows, making sure your children are enjoying themselves, connecting with you and feeling good can be challenging. Family photo sessions can be daunting for them, but with some preparation and patience, they can be quite an enjoyable and fun experience. (this is my goal) I usually base session time on the pace of the children,  which produces beautiful imagery every time.

Let Your Kiddos Be Involved

Include your children in the planning process as much as possible. Of course, age makes a difference in this! Ask them what colors they think the family should wear. Help them pick an outfit, either from the closet or the store. When children are involved, they are more invested in how the session will be and are likely to be more engaged.

Bring Backup

Make sure you're well prepared for photo session day. Bring along a change of clothes, snacks, water, diapers, etc...That way, even if the unexpected happens, you will be ready for it!

Make it Fun

I already act a little "fun and weird" according to many of the children I have had the joy to photograph. This usually creates a more relaxed, fun environment for them. But, you can make this day a special occasion! Bring along special toys and/or snacks to keep the energy up and plan on doing something fun afterwards so they have something else to look forward to.

What to Wear

Choosing what to wear for your portrait session can feel overwhelming, but a little preparation goes a long way. At Songs of Life Photography, I help families think through clothing choices that complement one another, reflect their personalities, and support the natural connections we want to capture. I also share a Style Guide with helpful tips to make coordinating easier. In the meantime, here are a few simple ideas to help you get started.

Pick Two

Pick two complimentary colors and work with them. Think navy and mustard or hunter green and burgundy. Or, navy and cream-everyone wears blue jeans while mom and daughters wear cream sweaters, and dad and son wear cream and navy shirts.

Accessorize

Bring a pop of color and accessorize by wearing hats, jewelry, and/or items that compliment the two colors you have chosen.

Layer

Layer your clothing with jean jackets, vests, and/or hats to give you variety in your clothing. Take photos with your jacket on and off and voila-you have two different "looks".

Wardrobe tips and what to wear for your photo session
Wardrobe tips and what to wear for your photo session
Wardrobe tips and what to wear for your photo session
Wardrobe tips and what to wear for your photo session

Planning on a family photo session?

My Style Guide is a great resource to help you prepare.

Join the Songs of Life email community and receive it instantly.

Schedule a Session with me and I will send it to you!

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Let's Plan Your Session

The best next step is to jump on a quick phone call with me so that I can better get to know you and answer all your questions. use the link below to schedule a stress-free 15 minute complimentary consultation.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULT

Thank you for contacting us!

Hello!

Thank you so much for inquiring about a portrait session with Songs of Life Photography Studio! 

We will be in touch within two business days, but if you need quicker assistance, please give me a call at 406.580.6176.

 

Thank you again,

Linda Bell

Songs of Life Photography Studio

406.580.6176

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Thank you for contacting us!

Hello!

Thank you so much for inquiring about a portrait session with Songs of Life Photography Studio! 

We will be in touch within two business days, but if you need quicker assistance, please give me a call at 406.580.6176.

 

Thank you again,

Linda Bell

Songs of Life Photography Studio

406.580.6176

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  • HOME
  • SESSIONS
    • Your Experience
    • Family Storytelling
    • Real Life is Beautiful
    • Cherished Chapter Sessions
    • Personality Portraits
  • Investment
  • BLOG
  • GET STARTED
    • CONTACT
    • SCHEDULE
  • MEET SONGS OF LIFE
    • ABOUT
    • Portfolio
    • Testimonials
    • FAQ
  • What's New
    • Tips for a Great Session
    • STYLE GUIDE
    • Share the Love
406.580.6176
Belgrade, MT. 59714