8 Tips For Your DIY Valentines Photoshoot
Happy Valentines Day everyone! We had such a fun Valentines mini session at Danielle Sara Photography. I put together some tips for those who want to DIY their own love themed photoshoot. You’ll be able to capture perfect instagram-able photos no matter what kind of camera you have.
Set Up Early
If you have anything you want to use in the photo, set it out before you bring the kids into the set. Baby Tip - dress baby in the outfit you want them to wear for nap time so they wake up happy and ready to go!
2. Pay Attention to the Light
If you’re taking photos indoors turn off the overhead lights. Lights on the ceiling aren’t flattering for photos since they cast weird shadows on the face. Home lights can also be green or yellow toned which causes people to look sickly.
Opt to take photos next to a window. This way the light falls on their face at a much better angle. If there is a lot of sunlight coming in play around with the shades! If you have curtains you can put them over the window to get a much softer look. You can also open the window and let all the light in for a sunny bright look.
3. Get Down to Their Level
Bending down or changing positions can drastically improve a photo. Bend down for toddlers so you are eye level, not looking down. For babies who aren’t sitting up yet, lay them down and take a photo directly overhead. It can also be easier to get kids attention when they are cuddled up on some blankets on the floor!
4. Make it a Game
Beautifullly imperfect smiles and laughter come from spontaneous action. Ask them to check each other’s nose for boogers or look at each other and laugh. Turn on their favorite music and have a dance party!
Baby Tip: peak-a-boo behind the camera works like a charm!
5. Clear the Clutter
Get rid of distractions in the background. Only keep the props and decorations in the shot that create composition you desire. Keep it simple by finding a blank wall by a window and start snapping.
6. Turn on the Grid Feature
Have you ever wondered why professional photographer’s photos are so balanced? The secret sauce to a good composition is the rule of thirds, and it’s on your phone. For iphone go to settings, camera, grid and turn it on. Then line your subject up with the spots where the lines intersect. Try a few different angles and see how your photos improve!
7. Turn on Burst Mode
Tons of frames means more chances of capturing your favorite moment! Scroll through all of the action and save only your favorite photos. Use the heart or star icon on your phone to mark the keeper. If you are using a DLSR, download to your phone/computer and flag the best of the bunch. This will make it easier to find your favorites to edit, print, or share in the future. Delete the rest.
8. Edit your Photos
To take it up a notch try editing your photos. The options are endless. Editing apps like VSCO and FREE Lightroom Mobile make it possible to give your photos that bright and airy look. Pick a favorite photo and bring it to life with an edit.
If you’d like to try out free presets @its.helendon sells amazing ones for the Lightroom app. Check them out!
P.S. Print your Photos
All your images are priceless memories, even if they are toddler selfies or imperfect poses. This generation is the most photographed generation! It would be a shame if they never got to see these images because they were left on an old iPhone that doesn’t work. There are so many amazing options out there for printing! I have a photo gifts highlight in my instagram stories if you need inspiration for Valentines Day gifts.
And of course the Legacy Photo Lab mini course will show you how to manage your photos and create a family photo album so your kids can see these adorable Valentines photos in the future!
If you use any of these tips, tag me in your V-Day images @daniellesaraphotography! I would love to see them!
