How to Prepare Your Home For a Photoshoot
There are a few reasons I like to portray families in their homes. Firstly, it’s the space where you feel most comfortable, which makes a big difference especially for children. Secondly, I just think it’s beautiful to capture the soul of your family in your house. Especially in London people move a lot, so there’s a good chance this might not be your forever home and wouldn’t it be lovely to have some memories of where you are right now? Thirdly, and this is mainly logistics - I think it just takes the stress out of travelling to a studio, especially with little ones in tow.
That said, I do understand that you might feel stressed in the lead up if the house isn’t in perfect condition. Please do not worry! Here are my tips to help prepare yourselves and your home for the session.
Light is everything
The most important thing is good daylight. When I arrive at your house, I would typically like to take a quick look around and identify the best areas to take photos. Spoiler, this is where you have the best light coming in. Anywhere with a window is usually good.
Typically we shoot in the living room, bedroom, kids room/nursery and sometimes the kitchen. But I have also taken pictures in hallways, simply because there was a big window with beautiful light coming through.
There is absolutely no need for a deep spring clean, but here’s a few things to consider that will make a difference:
Bedroom
Think about your bedsheets. I recommend plain bedsheets in light colours if possible. Don’t worry if you don’t have covers that fit this description, we could always put a blanket or throw over it.
Living Room
Again, please don’t feel like the space needs to be absolutely perfect. I would advise of a general quick tidy so there aren’t too many distracting things - thinking of bright coloured kids toys (unless we are documenting the kids playing with their favourite toys of course)! During our session, I will most likely be moving things around a bit, i.e. tucking cables out of the shot, or fixing a cushion on the sofa etc.
Kitchen
The kitchen is often a good place to take pictures in. Don’t worry if you don’t have a perfectly labelled spice rack and all sorts of different pasta displayed in beautiful glass jars. Let me tell you most people don’t and there is no need to. The kitchen is often the heart of the home, with many shared memories. I would just suggest to do a quick wipe down of countertops and move dirty dishes etc. out of sight. Don’t go overboard with removing everything - we don’t want it to be completely sterile.
Are you ready to capture some family memories in your home? Contact me today to book your session or discuss further.
About Me
I'm Maria O’Connor, a family & newborn photographer based in South West London, England. I am a mum of two boys and love capturing natural family moments in my clients’ homes. Are you ready to get in the frame? Contact me today!
