Richmond Family Session Planning: Essential Tips

Planning a family photo session in Richmond can be exciting, but a little preparation goes a long way to ensure a smooth and beautiful experience! As a Richmond photographer, I’ve gathered essential Richmond family session planning tips to help you capture authentic moments with your loved ones, whether in-home, studio, or outdoor settings.

Richmond Family Session Planning Timing

Timing is critical. For outdoor sessions, aim for the golden hour—about an hour before sunset—when light is soft and flattering. In summer, this might be 7-8 PM; in winter, 3-4 PM works best. For families with young kids, morning sessions after a nap can keep everyone fresh, per these planning tips.

Choosing the Right Location

Richmond offers diverse options. Maymont Park suits all seasons with its gardens and hills, while Belle Isle’s river views shine in summer. For winter, Tredegar Iron Works provides indoor-outdoor flexibility. During planning, we’ll match the spot to your family’s style—urban, natural, or cozy.

Richmond Family Session Planning Outfits

Coordinate, don’t match! Pick 2-3 complementary colors (e.g., navy, cream, burgundy) and distribute them—mom in a dress, dad in a shirt, kids in mixes. Avoid logos or busy patterns. Layering (scarves, vests) works for winter, while light fabrics suit summer, aligning with the season and location.

Preparing Kids and Pets

Talk to kids about the “fun adventure” ahead, bringing snacks or toys for comfort. For pets, a familiar leash or treat can ease them in. These session planning tips ensure everyone’s relaxed, leading to natural smiles and interactions.

What to Expect

Sessions typically last 1 hour, with breaks as needed. I’ll guide you into poses and prompt candid moments—walking, playing, or cuddling. The setup (home, studio, or outdoor) stays comfortable, with warmth for winter or shade for summer, prioritizing fun over perfection.

After Your Session

You’ll receive 30-40 edited images within two weeks. Consider a photo book or wall display to cherish these memories. All in all, these Richmond family session planning tips aim to make your shoot enjoyable, resulting in timeless portraits of your family’s love.

Learn more with our Richmond baby photo sessions in our previous post!
If you’re looking for a studio in the Richmond area for your newborn, family, maternity or other type of session, check out The Studio on Broad!