OLLY VIEW PHOTOGRAPHY

Hi friends! So glad you are here today and I’m even more excited to welcome you to my brand NEW launch – family photo styling! Consider me your new family photo stylist, helping you curate the right outfits so you can step into your next family photoshoot with confidence and walk away with lasting memories knowing you got it right!

This has been in the works for quite some time and I’m finally happy to be sharing it with all of you. Style has been a part of my life from a young age – I’ve always appreciated a good outfit! I believe how you present yourself not only boosts your confidence but also transforms how you feel.

To kick-off this exciting launch, I want to introduce you to Julie Paurus – with Olly View Photography. She is originally from Cocoa, Florida but currently lives here in Champlin, Minnesota, with her husband and two kids. She lived in Texas for a few years but the beautiful state of Minnesota called her back and she hasn’t looked back since! Growing up around photography, she finds every part of the day a perfect moment to document. Just ask her kids! Her love of finding the sweet moments in the world is a top priority so if you’d love to have yours captured, she would love to chat!

I thought it would be fun to give YOU some tips and tricks on how to get it right from the photographer’s perspective. And with that, I had a chance to interview Julie and what she has to say includes some good advice you’ll want to remember if you are planning a family photoshoot outside. The Q & A below highlights 8 ways to make your outdoor family photoshoot shine!

Let’s jump right in!

Q & A

Q: What is the most important thing you think families should keep in mind when planning an outdoor photoshoot?

A: Dress for the elements. Wear the right attire so that no one is too cold or too hot. If your kids are freezing just to look cute then they’ll be miserable. There are great ways to layer to still make your outfits photo ready. 

Q: What outdoor shoots have been your favorite and why?

A: All of the shoots that are relaxed and carefree. When mom or dad are too in control then the kids aren’t relaxed and playful. You have to show up with the mindset that your photographer will work their hardest to get the shot you want and they want. Just relax and have fun.

Q: Are there outfits or styles people should stay away from for an outdoor shoot? And in your opinion what types and styles of outfits work well for outdoor photoshoots?

A: Again, dressing for the elements. As far as things to stay away from, I say this with all of my sessions, don’t come too matchy. Meaning, don’t have the same color shirt or dress for everyone. Mix and match colors, patterns and textures to create a beautiful pallet. 

Don’t come in bright colors and nothing tight and short. Honestly the lighter, more neutral the colors you’re wearing will not add any distraction to the photos. If everyone is dressed in a similar style and one person is in a brighter shade, then the eye automatically goes to that brighter outfit. I tell my moms, the flowier the dress the better. Anything to add movement to the photograph the better. 

If your child is uncomfortable with tall grass touching their legs, have them wear a longer dress with pants under or wear pants, not shorts.

Q: Tell me the importance of location and how it sets the stage for great photos? 

A: It sets the scene and the mood in my opinion. You don’t want a lot of busy distraction in your photos that takes away from the family. 

Q: How do you manage little ones when they become tired or restless during the outdoor photoshoot? Any tips and tricks?

A: I bring lollipops for kids (and dads :). It works every time. BUT the most important thing I tell my moms especially is that if they relax, everyone will relax. Another big big thing is the smile throughout every mishap. If you think your kids aren’t paying attention, keep smiling through it. I could see something worth a beautiful shot but if you’re in the background scolding them or looking frustrated it ruins the entire shot. Also, play with the kids and relax relax relax. 

Q: Do you have a memorable outdoor family photoshoot where everything felt like it came together? If so, can you describe the experience?

A: When everyone was ready, happy, dressed exactly like I love and just played. I walked around and photographed all of the sweet in between moments and it was incredible. 

Q: What are the challenges of an outdoor photoshoot and how can families avoid the common pitfalls so they can get it right?! 

A: Again, dress for the elements. Layer up if you think your child will be cold. That is the biggest mistake parents make. They dress for Fall during a Winter photoshoot. You still can look really cute for winter, just layer underneath shirts and find cute jackets. Also, when parents get too stressed. I say it everytime. Once mom feels like the shoot is going down then dad gets annoyed and kids feel the tension then I start to feel it even if I know that I’ve gotten beautiful shots. Just relax and enjoy the process and trust your photographer. 

Q: What is your advice for moms on how to best prepare for the outdoor shoot and what is your advice for moms during the shoot? 

A: Don’t go in with a set list of shots. Let your photographer know what you’d love but trust your photographer to capture your family the best. Don’t try to control everything and get upset when kids mess around. Sometimes those are the sweetest moments to capture. 

If you are local to Minneapolis and are looking for a new photographer, make sure to consider Olly View Photography for your next outdoor family photoshoot. You can check out more of her portfolio on Instagram at @ollyviewphotography and also get in touch on her website here.

TAKEAWAYS

1 – Dress for the elements so you can focus on having fun and not worrying about the weather conditions and temperature.

2 – When you (the mom) relax everyone relaxes and this could not be a better tip! It’s so easy to get stressed in the moment, but learning to surrender and trust your photographer is key.

3 – Play and have fun and you will walk away with memorable photos and an experience you won’t forget. A shift in mindset can do the trick!

So . . . are you inspired for your next outdoor family photoshoot, but still feeling overwhelmed by what to wear? I hear you! My advice – don’t wait until the last minute, finding yourself stressed with shopping or worse, having nothing to wear. Let’s get in touch, so I can help you create something beautiful for you and your family!

I’ve got you covered whether you are looking for outfit inspiration or have a budget in mind. Learn more about my pricing and packages here and let’s start planning! Don’t hesitate to reach out with additional questions at info@natalieellis.com

Let’s get shopping!

-Natalie

(Looking for more style/fashion posts? Explore more here!)