The holidays are meant to be a time of togetherness, love and celebration of family. And while holiday photos showcase all of those wonderful values, the process of taking family photos can be anything but a wonderful family memory. That’s why The Local Moms Network has partnered with Shoott, a female-run company that’s making these photo shoots easier than ever to do.
You can choose from 30-minute free outdoor photo sessions at locations near you (find out where they’ll be here and buy only the photos you like), or you can book a paid custom session. And to make the day go smoothly, use these 5 tips from Shoott, for getting amazing photos with zero tears (from mom or kids, ha!).
Want to try Shoott? Go to shoott.com and use code LOCALMOMS for 15% off 10+ photos. Browse through Shoott’s available schedule through December by neighborhood, date, or by the portfolio of top photographers in your area and you can easily book a session in 60 seconds or less! You can also check out their work on Instagram @shoottphotos
Use a Ready-Made Location
Shoott’s vetted locations are carefully selected to be gorgeous backdrops for the photos their pros are taking. “By working with us, you don’t have to plan months or even weeks ahead and you can skip worrying about details like permits,” says Jen Tsay, CEO and cofounder of Shoott.
Hire a Professional
Using your neighbor or a friend to snap your holiday photo might seem like a way to save time and money, but you have enough to worry about without directing them while you’re trying to wrangle your kids. “Shoott offers free 4.9 star Google rated mini sessions with a pay-by-the-pic model with talented photographers that have been vetted by their team and other moms from your community so you can have an easy, stress-free booking experience,” notes Jen.
Do Your Prep Early
While you don’t have to book your photographer months before, Jen recommends checking out Pinterest to find examples of family photos you love, both your posing and outfit ideas. Don’t forget to share your outfit ideas with everyone involved well before the day.
Get To the Shoot Early
Just like any event with kids, arriving early and leaving time for unexpected potty breaks, meltdowns and more is always a good idea. “We recommend aiming to be at least 10-15 minutes early with everyone as fed and rested as possible to promote the best possible family vibes,” says Jen.
Be in the Moment
We’ve all had photo shoots that were a disaster but somehow ended up producing amazing photos, but it’s a lot easier to show your family’s love if you’re feeling loving towards each other! “Once you’re there, try to really be in the moment and enjoy each’s other’s company; try to use it as time to celebrate and connect with each other and your relationships will shine through, we promise!” says Jen.
If you go with Shoott, expect to receive your digital photo gallery in just 3-5 business days, and you’ll have the opportunity to easily create cars with eco-friendly luxury printing company Paper Culture. Says Jen: “If you’re truly running late on time, you can always send New Year’s cards and/or opt for digital cards with your Shoott photos!”
Want to try Shoott? Go to shoott.com and use code LOCALMOMS for 15% off 10+ photos. Browse through Shoott’s available schedule through December by neighborhood, date, or by the portfolio of top photographers in your area and you can easily book a session in 60 seconds or less! You can also check out their work on Instagram @shoottphotos