How to get dad to enjoy a family photo session
Most Dads hate the idea of family photos, but it doesn't need to be that way. We have 5 easy steps that will make Dad enjoy the session. So that next time you want to update your family photos you won't have to drag him along and he'll be genuinely happy to be there
I can't tell you how often I get dads arriving for a session with a frown on their face, totally stressed about what's about to happen.
No one really loves having their photo taken, but dads in particular seem to dread it the most. The good news is there are some easy things you can do to make the whole experience something he actually enjoys. Maybe even enough that next time you suggest updating the family portraits, he's happy to go.
1. Don't fuss too much over outfits
As mums, we tend to overanalyse what everyone is going to wear. But for dads, being told what to put on is one of the worst parts of the whole thing.
My advice is to pick a colour. It can be grey, blue, black, white. Whatever suits your family best. Then find tops that roughly coordinate around that choice. The bottoms don't matter as much. Jeans work well, or a simple skirt for you, but don't overthink it.
Most importantly, pick something dad is going to feel comfortable in. There is nothing worse than seeing a dad arrive in a button-up shirt and tie when I can tell he's the kind of guy who normally walks around in shorts and thongs. Pick something that reflects him.
This goes for the kids too. So many mums want to dress their kids up in that outfit they don't actually like, and then the kids look miserable the whole session.
2. Reassure him it won't take long
I often get people really focused on how long the session is going to go for. My advice is don't pick your photographer based on the number of hours they offer. Pick them based on the style of their photography.
My sessions never go over an hour. I find with young kids they've had enough after 30 to 40 minutes, and the dads have definitely had enough by then too.
You don't need hours to get great photos. You just need a photographer who can connect with your kids and capture real moments with them.
Check with your photographer beforehand how long the session will take and give dad a rough idea so he knows what to expect. It's always easier for a guy to have a timeframe rather than getting there and finding out he's going to be there for hours.
3. Relax and let your kids have fun
Once you're at the session, relax and let your kids be themselves. The real smiles that come from kids bouncing around and having fun are the ones that make the best photos. Dads love watching the kids enjoy themselves and having a joke with them.
When dad looks back at the photos and sees real smiles from real moments with his kids, he'll treasure those memories. And next time you ask him to come in for a session, he won't hesitate.
4. Talk to him about what you're thinking of buying
So often mums are the decision makers at home, but I really think it's important to involve dad in the process.
Have a look around your home and think about where you'd like to put something. Then have a chat with him about the kind of size he likes. If you like the idea of an album, look at the different options together and make sure there's something that suits you both.
Sometimes I get families arriving to their ordering session and mum hasn't even shown dad the pricing. There is nothing more awkward than that moment when he has no idea of the budget you're expecting to spend. Have an honest conversation beforehand. Talk about the kinds of things you love and what you'd like to buy from the session. It makes the whole process less stressful for everyone.
It also really helps me as your photographer to know what you're aiming for, so I can focus on getting exactly what's going to suit your home.
5. Book a time when you're not racing to get there
Life with kids is busy. But my advice is to pick a time for your session where there isn't going to be a lot of stress around getting there.
If you have little kids, see if dad can take the morning off work. It's so much easier to come in during the week when he's fresh and hasn't been working all week. You could make a day of it. Do the session in the morning and then head out for a nice lunch together.
If you have teenagers, a Saturday is going to be the best option, but try to work it around sporting commitments. So often I have families race from a sporting match, throw the kids in the shower and then race to get to me. Everyone arrives stressed out.
If your Saturdays are always full of sport, look for a time in the school holidays. Sports are off, there's more time, and maybe dad can take a morning or a day off work and spend time with the kids as well.