Family Photoshoot in Huntsville, AL: Everything You Need to Know
As a family photographer in Huntsville, AL I specialize in capturing authentic moments for families across North Alabama. Family photoshoots are the perfect opportunity to celebrate milestones, update family pictures on the wall or capture seasonal memories. These also make great gifts for the holidays, birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and anniversaries. There are numerous beautiful outdoor locations for a family photoshoot in Huntsville, AL. Some of my favorites include Monte Sano, Hays Nature Preserve, Weathington Park, and Downtown Huntsville. You can learn more about the family portrait options I offer here and below I have included everything you need to know about a family photography session in Huntsville.
Why Schedule a Family Photoshoot in Huntsville AL?
Huntsville family portraits are a great opportunity to celebrate milestones such as children’s birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. You can schedule a family photoshoot for any reason though. The reality is that time goes by fast, your kids tiny hands won’t be tiny for long, your teenager will be off to college before you know it and you’ll also be looking back at photos to look back on memories.
There are numerous family photo locations in Huntsville, AL that are perfect for family photoshoots. Some of my favorite locations are big open fields, Hays Preserve, Monte Sano State Park, and Downtown Huntsville. Regardless of the location you chose there are beautiful backdrops all around Huntsville that are perfect for family portraits.
Best Locations for a Family Photoshoot in Huntsville AL
Huntsville Botanical Garden
The Huntsville Botanical Gardens is a beautiful location for a family photoshoot in Huntsville, AL. This location offers beautiful walking paths, large open fields, and beautiful flowers throughout. This location is also well maintained making it a great option for portraits. Be aware that the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s does require the photographer to obtain a permit, so there are typically additional fees associated with the permit & admission fees may also apply depending on the size of your family.
Big Spring Park & Downtown Huntsville
Downtown Huntsville is another great location for a family photoshoot in Huntsville, AL. Downtown Huntsville offers a lot of variety because there are numerous locations that are great for portraits all within a short walking distance of each other. Downtown Huntsville also offers easy access to Big Spring Park, which is another beautiful spot to be able to capture some water in your family portraits.
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park offers several nature trails and mountain views. It’s a great location to capture family portraits in the fall due to all the trees and leaves that can be in the background. There are also opportunities to have family photoshoots in beautiful locations that offer a mountain view overlook.
What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot
When you are planning outfits for family pictures in Huntsville, AL there are a few key recommendations I always suggest. These include avoiding neon colors, coordinate outfits rather than match, avoid large logos, and avoid large bold prints. Neon colors can be distracting and also can reflect back onto skin tones. For example, neon green can make skin tones look green in portraits. This is why I recommend avoiding neon colors. Large logos and bold prints can also be distracting in family portraits. The goal is to have outfits that compliment your family without being overly distracting. We want the focus to stay on the emotion and personality of your family!
When selecting what to wear for your family photoshoot I recommend selecting outfits that are fitting for the season. You want to be comfortable during your family photoshoot, so I recommend dressing for the current weather depending on the season you are booking your photoshoot. For outfit colors I recommend selecting pastels, neutral colors or jewel tones as these all photograph great! I do caution against wearing all green if your photoshoot is taking place in a large field or with a lot of trees. There will still be contrast, but just know your final portraits will include a lot of green.
Tips for a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot
Planning a family photoshoot can feel stressful and overwhelming especially with young children. For young children I recommend bring snacks, water, and trying to stay relaxed. Children feed off our energy and overall if we focus on the moment and let the kids be kids. This is typically when we can capture those real genuine smiles.
I structure my family sessions to flow around the children. If kids are wanting to play I will give prompts that allow the photoshoot to feel like a fun game while still capturing portraits that capture your family’s connection. Lastly, be sure to plan to arrive early, bring a backup outfit and diapers, and if you want to bribe your children there’s no jugdement here!!
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Photoshoots in Huntsville AL
How long does a family session last?
A family photoshoot in Huntsville, AL is typically 60 minutes long. If you book a family mini session then these are typically 15 minute sessions.
What if it rains?
I always hate to have to reschedule sessions, but if the weather is predicting rain I will reach out to reschedule. Regardless, I always communicate with you the week of about how the weather is looking for our upcoming session.
When should we book?
You can book your session anytime! It is typically best to reach out at least 4 weeks in advance for availability. You can inquire about booking a session here!
Can grandparents join?
Of course!! I offer an extended family session that is perfect for including grandparents or even multiple families!
What should young children wear?
It is best to coordinate outfits with the rest of the family! For young children in diapers I ALWAYS suggest having a backup outfit in the car and spare diapers.
Ready to Schedule Your Family Photoshoot in Huntsville AL?
If you are ready to schedule a family photoshoot in Huntsville, AL you can reach out to me here! For more information on the family portraits I offer you can see more details here. Be sure to follow along on Instagram to stay up to date on upcoming mini sessions, news, and more!!
