The time for the annual family photo is just around the corner as we prepare for the holidays. While there are various beautiful locations that you could choose for your family photoshoot, the perfect location could also be in the comfort of your own home. Here are a few reasons to have your next family photoshoot at your own home:

• Comfort: when everyone is more comfortable in their surroundings they will also be more comfortable in front of the camera

• No travel: you don’t have to worry about wrangling the kids up and getting them in the car to go somewhere and do something they aren’t excited about

• Accessibility: when you are at home you have accessibility to snacks, water, bathrooms, hairbrushes & makeup, as well as toys or treats if needed

When it comes to family photo sessions that include children, the best images are captured when the kids are having fun and able to be themselves. If you have fun first, you’ll for sure get some great photos.

When doing a Family Photo Session at your home, you want to think of areas that will have good lighting and also think of ways to keep the session laid back and fun for everyone, especially the kids.

My top 5 ideas for backdrops at home would be:

1. A cute outdoor vignette space such as your walk up to the front door

2. Your common living space where everyone feels immediate comfort

3. In your yard, allowing the kids to run around and have some fun

4. A bedroom or nursery, where can everyone relax or be playful

5. Your favorite decorated space & think outside the box such as letting the kids sit on the table

Don’t take yourself too seriously and have fun with your kids. Whether that means running around with them, lightly wrestling, or playing tickle fights, do what you can to get them in a playful mood. When they’re laughing and having fun, everyone wins!