Getting Dad to Relax at Your Bristol Family Photoshoot

Dad-Friendly Family Photography in Bristol

'My husband is not keen on having his photograph taken'. It's a common comment in my pre-photoshoot questionnaire. And I get it. Many of us, including me, have had bad photo experiences. But, if your partner isn't on board, it will likely show in your family photos. So, when it comes to maternity, newborn and family photoshoots, I like to think of dads much like children! They need plenty of reassurance, they require prepping before photo day and they shine when they are given permission to be themselves.

Get playful

Having activities planned for your family photoshoot is a great way to capture real moments that you'll long to remember. And since dads feel most at ease when they are doing something, I suggest we encourage him to play with the children in whatever way makes him smile. Spinning, throwing, tickling, reading, chasing, building, crafting. Just let him know the photoshoot is going to be fun! These simple activities make for wonderful photos that lovingly freeze your family's precious everyday story. When we plan your photoshoot we will chat about some of the things you and your crew like to do together.

Create a relaxed atmosphere

Do whatever you can to create a relaxed atmosphere on the day of your photoshoot. Make sure you've all got full tummies, put on your favourite family playlist, have plenty of snacks and water to hand, and leave the rest up to me. I find that in allowing you and your family to simply enjoy one another, dads naturally relax into the photoshoot without even realising it is happening.

Home is where dad feels able to be himself

One of the reasons I love in-home family photoshoots, is the way they provide the perfectly relaxed and natural backdrop for everyone to be themselves. At home, Dad can just be Dad, doing the things they would normally be doing with the kids. No stiff posing and no cheesy grins to camera, just playful love, joy and connection. In-home sessions with Little Bodhi Photography are ideal for dads who love letting loose and being goofy, as well as chilling out in the special space they call home.

Set expectations for your family photoshoot

Let Dad know the only expectation you have of him on the day is to be himself and love on his children. If it helps, you can show him what an in-home family photoshoot looks like. In my welcome guide you will find a link to some of my family galleries or share this blog post with him to show him that I am coming to document your family's beautiful everyday moments, not Pinterest-perfect poses.

Choose clothes that dad feels confident and comfortable in

It is so important you and your family feel comfortable and confident in your outfits during your photoshoot. That's why I send you a style guide to help you choose clothes to help elevate your family photos. For Dad, I recommend choosing something smart yet causal like chinos or jeans and a simple shirt or t-shirt. Once you have booked your photoshoot with me, check your confirmation email for my style and prep guide. It contains suggested colour palettes and examples of outfits that work well on camera.

And that's it!

In my experience, once Dad realises a maternity, newborn or family photoshoot can be natural, relaxed and fun, the beautiful photos opportunities flow so effortlessly that he'll wonder what the worry was all about!

Ready to book a relaxed family photoshoot that dad can get on board with?

I get it, I really do. In the hustle and bustle of daily parenting life, it's easy to let these moments pass by. But with a family photoshoot, you can guarantee everyday memories are frozen in time and the magic of your family story is preserved forever.

You and your crew deserve this!

Debbie x