Introduction: Setting the Stage for Your Family Photo Session
Family photo sessions aren’t just about capturing images for your albums – they’re about weaving together the fabric of your family, capturing timeless memories you will hold close to your heart for years to come.
In a fast-paced world that often feels to go by just a little too fast, my family photo sessions serve as a chance to press the pause button and capture those special moments in real-time.
Years from now, you’ll cherish those family sessions most of all. The ones with the laughter captured mid-frame, those timeless smiles shining through the photo. My family photo sessions are all about freezing moments in time that you'll cherish for generations.
Every family is unique. That's why I take the time to get to know you, to understand your quirks, your laughter, and your love. My approach? It's all about capturing the essence of your family in a way that's authentic and true.
Tip #1: Choose a Photographer Who Understands Families
When it comes to family photography, it's essential to choose a photographer who gets it. Because not every photographer specializes in shooting family photo sessions – and they might not understand how to best pose a family or handle children.
My entire career has always been about shooting families and capturing their stories. I've made it my mission to specialize in capturing the beautiful chaos of family life. From the giggles to the occasional tantrum (we've all been there!), I'm all about creating a relaxed environment where your family can just be yourselves.
Jessica, one of my past clients, brought her family of four – including two teenage girls – and parents for their family photo session. “We all found Andre to be genuine, kind, patient and charming,” she says. “She made us feel comfortable from the beginning - just like a friend taking your pictures. Her direction was subtle and there was no shortage of laughter or joy in the process.”
Tip #2: Select a Location That Reflects Your Family’s Spirit
Maybe I’m biased, but Boston has some of the most breathtaking photography spots! Boston is my home, and I love this beautiful city with my whole heart – and I’ve spent years uncovering the best places to take pictures in Boston.
If you’re looking for outdoor family photos, I love exploring Boston’s hidden gems. From Boston Public Library to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum to The Arnold Arboretum to historic Acorn Street, there are countless stunning spots to explore in the city.
However, if you’re looking for something more peaceful, I’d recommend my Lexington photo studio. My secluded, private studio space in downtown Lexington is really the best spot for a more intimate, intentional shoot. It’s also comfortable for the whole family – we have waiting spaces, a bathroom, a dedicated hair and makeup room, and a space to select your favorite photos after the family photo session. Opting for a flexible space like an indoor studio space can make the whole experience relaxing.
Tip #3: Coordinate Outfits for Photogenic Harmony
Coordinating outfits can be a big stress factor for many families, but they’re truly key to a great family photo session. Let's focus on coordination that highlights each family member's personality.
How do we do that? Think layers, textures, and accessories that add visual interest without overwhelming the frame. And don't be afraid to mix and match! A little contrast can go a long way in creating dynamic photos that truly capture your family's spirit.
When you book with me, I work with you one-on-one (in the comfort of your own home!) to offer guidance on colors, styles, and patterns that'll make you pop on camera, all while keeping comfort a top priority.
When one of my clients, Lauren, scheduled her family photo session, she said the prep leading up to the photoshoot was always the most stressful part for her in the past. The outfits, in particular, were a big hurdle for her family…After all, it’s difficult to do all that coordination yourself!
“Andre’s process took all that stress out of the equation,” she says. “She walked through my home, identified a color palette that could work, pulled outfits from our closets that worked, and made specific recommendations (with online shopping links!) to clothing items and accessories that could be added to the looks she created, and she scheduled a professional to come to my home on the day of the photoshoot to do my hair and makeup!”
“For the first time ever, I felt relaxed by the time the photoshoot came around because I was in such good hands!” Lauren says.
Your family photo session and outfit coordination don’t have to be stressful. With the right photographer, you and your family can have a relaxing, peaceful day and focus on what matters most: your family time and your connection.
Tip #4: Plan Your Session at the Right Time
Timing is everything for your family photo session – especially with our busy, hectic schedules. It’s hard to find a time when your toddler might be energetic, when you might feel rested and when your teenager might be done with school and extracurriculars.
Located in central Lexington, off a main road, my studio space is the calming, peaceful spot you and your family crave. Whether you're dreaming of lovely neutrals in spring or cozy sweaters in fall, I'll help you choose the perfect backdrop for your family's photo adventure. My studio space is full of bright, white spaces and neutrals – and a special backdrop to customize.
Tip #5: Prepare the Family to Be at Their Best
Happy kids equal happy photos, am I right? That's why I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to make sure everyone's feeling their best on the big family photoshoot day. It's not just about keeping the little ones entertained – it's also about helping parents relax and enjoy the moment.
Before your family photoshoot, we’ll sit down together in the comfort of your own home and go through outfits and where your photos might be displayed. It’s a time for us to connect and get to know each other – and a time for me to understand your family, your connection and your dynamics.
So go ahead, take a deep breath, and trust that I've got everything under control. After all, the best photos happen when everyone's having fun!
Lauren, who booked one of my family photo sessions, says she and her family had a wonderful time at their session – and she had no idea it could be so easy!
“The setting was beautiful and Andre brings such warmth, positivity, confidence, attention to detail, and skill to the session that I felt completely at ease,” Lauren says. “It’s a real gift when you know you’re in such good hands that you can let go of any worries. I knew Andre had everything covered, and our stunning photos proved me right.”
Tip #6: Make It a Fun and Memorable Experience
This last tip just might be the most important… Let’s make your family photo session fun and memorable! It’s not every day you have dedicated time, just you and your family, to connect, laugh and smile together.
Loosen up, let your hair down (literally…or metaphorically!), and let’s cherish the best moments together.
If the pandemic taught us anything, it taught us about the impermanence of life. These moments are fleeting…so let’s soak it all up! Because at the end of the day, it's not just about the photos; it's about the memories we create together.
Capturing Timeless Memories with Andre Toro Photography
Choosing the right photographer isn't just about the pictures. It’s about capturing moments in time – real, raw, unfiltered snaps of your family in their moment. It’s about telling your family’s story through art.
After her family’s session, Jessica shared, “We were so pleased to see the proofs in the studio right after our shoot. Andre captured some very sweet moments we didn’t even realize were happening, in particular between my daughters and my parents, and those shots meant so much to me. There were so many options that the only hard thing was choosing!”
Now those memories hang in Jessica’s family home.
“The process was so easy! From communicating back and forth about which pictures we wanted to display and where all the way through to installation day; a very smooth process overall,” Jessica says.
These memories will transport you back to this moment, this feeling, this love, every time you look at them. And that’s something pretty special – something unforgettable.
“We’ve received so many compliments from friends and family. We used a couple of the photos in our holiday cards, and we have some of the portraits hanging in our kitchen and family room. They add warmth to our home.”
Book Your Family Session Today!
Ready to turn those memories into family photos, beautifully displayed on your wall?
Then I've got just one thing to say: let's do this!
Love,
