Getting to know families and their dynamic is what I love most about photography. Every group brings a unique set of personalities that are incomparable to the next. It definitely keeps me on my toes and challenges me to ask a lot of questions before every photo shoot – especially when I’m capturing siblings. You just never know which side of the love/hate relationship you’re going to get on portrait day.
If you don’t take the time to understand who you’re photographing, then how can you take quality pictures? I believe comfort levels begin with the relationship as I’ve been blessed to work with quite a few repeat clients. Being a part of the innocent and authentic moments of other people’s lives and watching their kids grow has also been a huge blessing for me.
Top Sibling Captures as a Photographer.
Since I normally blog about individual photography sessions, I thought it would be cute to talk about some of the adorable sibling photos I’ve taken over the years. I’ll go into detail about a few sessions then highlight some of my all-time favs.
First Time Big Sister with a New Sibling
Nothing is more precious than capturing an awestruck child holding a baby sibling. The big brother or sister role is usually not taken lightly – at least at first haha. Whether they were an only child or not, they can’t help but adore the newest member of the family. So many things must be going through their mind.
I love photographing these innocent moments because it’s only a matter of time before the jealous emotions set in. Call it the calm before the storm if you will. It won’t be long before they realize the baby is the center of attention. Being mindful of this as a mom and talking through the moment can be a special thing when capturing siblings.
Although they will have their fair share of conflict, there’s always an awful lot of love in the air with new siblings. When I’m planning a family session with a new baby, I want to make sure other siblings feel included. They deserve to be front and center too! Brothers and sisters have a special bond that isn’t always easy to capture. But, the pictures below show how adorable it can be.
If this doesn’t stir you up to start capturing siblings more often then I don’t know what to tell you! When they’re still littles, there’s hardly a moment worth missing!
The Authentic Love of Brothers and Sisters
Since I’m a mother of 6, I understand how difficult taking family photos with children can be. When kids aren’t bickering at each other, they’re usually goofing off together. It’s a hot and cold bond that truly never ends. This is just the way it is. So, capturing siblings in the perfect pose or expression doesn’t have to be the goal.
Keeping kids entertained and taking advantage of authentic moments typically turns out well. I‘ve kind of been able to master this over the years. Encouraging children to be themselves while honoring their parents is a lot easier said than done.
At the same time, asking them to sit still to smile over and over does create a little restlessness. So the best way to manage the shoot is to plan ahead and get all of their energy out beforehand.
Prepare For the Unexpected Sibling Moments.
Sometimes, parental guidance and experience isn’t enough. This was evident in one of my recent shoots. We had a tough time getting a young man’s cooperation. But to my surprise, big sister stepped up to the plate! Her leadership, love and respect for the process was very impressive! You can sense her sibling pride in the below picture with baby sis!
Photographing the older two as they ran together and laughed was priceless. It was also quite the relief! Watching her brother’s demeanor change because of her encouragement is something I’ll always remember. Hopefully the family does too!
There Are Plenty of Reasons to Photograph Siblings.
No matter what type of photoshoot I schedule, I’m always looking for creative ways to capture siblings in their own element. Looking for new tactics and finding ways to grow as a mother myself also helps. Child psychology is complex. Some don’t receive enough attention and feel the need to entertain or act out. Others clam up in an uncomfortable situation.
Knowing how to communicate and placing them in natural environments allows them to forget about the camera.
The key is comfort. If this can be attained, then capturing siblings is so much easier – and a LOT more memorable. Whether I’m photographing weddings, families or newborns, there’s always an opportunity to freeze a moment-in-time with siblings. Here are some of my favorite images of brother and sisters over the years.
Thinking About Photography in the Memphis Area?
Although I love capturing siblings and their families, I also provide a number of photography services that might be more fitting. Lifestyle pictures and ride a long services (for group events or outings) have been a fan fav of late. No matter your reason, finding a quality photographer near Memphis can go a long way.
So take some time to shop around and see what type of personality and experience will suit your family or group best. You’re always more than welcome to stop by my studio in Olive Branch, Mississippi if you have any questions!
