One of my favorite styles of photography is candid moments captured. So when Jillian (of Jillian Farnsworth Photography) approached me to collaborate for her upcoming spring sessions, I knew almost immediately it would be fun to do a family picnic theme.
While gathering and preparing items to bring to the shoot, I visualized what I wanted the setting to feel like: timeless, genuine, and purposeful.
Items I felt were necessary in creating a sense of timelessness included: real sandwiches wrapped in fabric napkins and twine, bottled sodas, fresh fruit and bread, fresh flowers, and a mix of vintage props that were kid-friendly. Everything had a purpose whether it was to be eaten, to be played with, to carry something, or to give some visual texture and variety.
The props were especially helpful during the session because it gave little children (mine included) something to hold on to, so they weren’t just sitting there smiling. They could actually enjoy the picnic, thereby allowing the pictures capture genuine happiness.
This little series of Kaila kissing the baby was unprompted. The candid shots made for a comical and sweet variety.
Bringing a children’s storybook is a great way to capture everyone’s attention and make them forget for a bit, that there is a photographer, snapping away.
I also love this one where Jillian told them to tickle each other!
I think this is the greatest picture ever captured of my three littles, and it was easier for her, since the setting allowed them to be genuinely happy. Nothing was forced.
It is also nice to have some variation, with some slightly more posed pictures. I would say children are much more compliant to pose and ‘say cheese’ when they are given an opportunity to laugh, have fun, and move around.
Love this setting with the bridge and blossoming tree behind! I tried to keep with the timeless/classic color scheme when selecting our outfits. We used beige, cream, blush, light blue, and gray, paying special attention to not have anyone be too matchy-matchy.
Jillian is a university educated artist and photographer and you can really see her talent illustrated in her work. She does family sessions, newborn and baby sessions, engagement and wedding sessions, as well as highly styled and themed sessions. If you live in the St Louis or Joplin, Missouri area, consider her for your next photography needs!
Beautiful family 🙂