In just a few days, we’ll be springing into more daylight. You don’t need to wait for summer to rock a portrait session.
Before the leaves have returned and the grass has greened, makes a stunning backdrop for portraits. Everything feels so fresh, crisp, and subtle. Nature is decorated by a landscape calmed with neutral tones, all shades of brown, and even the contrast of clear blue sky.
I love portraits during this time of year for two reasons. First, bright smiles and laughter from the connections people are having with one another. Second, there are fewer distracting background elements in the natural landscape to take focus away from you!
In this narrow window of time the colors are warm, the air is cool, and energy is high. Yet this time of year seems to be largely neglected by families. March and April the landscape feels to have less inspiration for many.
Yet, the earth is waking up for spring. Crocus pop up from the ground, the blanket of grass begins to green, daffodils blossom and tree flowers unfurl from tight buds. There are so many ways to express your personalities and appreciate a love for nature in photos this time of year. Plus the nuisance of humidity and pestering bugs aren’t in the way- super bonus!
The lighting this time of year is spectacular. You can wear just about anything you want. Bright colors, neutral tones, and practically any pattern will look great against the soft backdrops. This is also a great opportunity to get creative with your session and really highlight what your family loves to do together.
Family Adventure Sessions
are an excellent way to experience an alternate style of family photography. Let me join you for some play and adventure in the local park or for a wilderness adventure on one of the many trails to choose from in the lower Connecticut River Valley. What is your favorite activity to do together?
So… how does one do family portraits in early spring?
Do Something Fun
This is not the time to line your family up and smile for the camera. I can’t stress this enough. You want your photos to say something about you. Something more than, “Don’t we look good in our color-coordinated outfits?”
So many people have told me, “I smile weird in photos…” Well of course you do! If you smile when you’re not genuinely happy it doesn’t look the same. Instead, I’ve found that my clients are thrilled with their natural expressions, and the best way to bring out those faces is to do something everyone enjoys.
Portrait Activity Inspiration
Here are some ideas for things you might do for your outdoor family adventure session:
Go for a hike.
Play catch.
Play road hockey.
Swing on a swing set.
Skip rocks on the water.
Play fetch with your dog(s).
Do handstands.
Splash around in puddles.
Climb a tree.
Teach your young kids to ride a bike.
The truth is, this is a beautiful time of year for family portraits. Choosing the right activity for your session will set the tone for real photographs you’ll always love. Remember that the neutral colors of the season make an incredible backdrop, and scheduling your session first thing in the morning or at sunset will create a beautiful setting with optimal lighting for your photographs. Highlight your style by wearing practically anything you want. There’s no such thing as dressing too casually for a family adventure session.
Family Adventure Sessions, and other sessions are discounted for clients who book and complete their sessions before the end of April, 2024. Sessions return back to their regular rate on May 1st.
I hope to meet many new families during this transitional season. Let’s do this!
Submit a form to Claudine to inquire, connect, get more information and to book your session.