As a photographer, I’m alllll about capturing memories and freezing moments in time. It’s like… My whole thing!! That’s why, as a Knoxville family photographer, I’m always gonna recommend getting family photos. They’re cute AF, they’re honestly really fun (yeah, you heard me right… We don’t do stress here!), and they’re so great to look back on to remember this time in your life forever. And my personal favorite way to capture these sessions?? Studio family photos. It makes it SO much easier, and gives you so much room for personality!! If that sounds like your kinda vibe, I’m bringing you everything you need to know about planning a shoot like this. 

Studio Family Photos: Why They’re a Hell Yeah From Me

There are honestly so many reasons to choose a studio for your family photos, but here are my top ones: 

• Keeping everything in one place makes things go smoothly

It’s no surprise that it can be hard to keep an eye on kiddos and keep them contained in a space that has a lot to do and see. A studio helps with that, like a TON. We’re in one big room, so they can’t really run off (which I know as a mama you’re having a big exhale about). This is especially true for my fams with more kids!! Having one set room relieves a lot of chaos, having to helicopter-watch them. 

Also, not having to move around or head to different spaces makes a world of difference. That means no packing up the diaper bag AGAIN, just once to get there and once to leave. Piece of cake!! 

• It’s easy to make your own

I love studios in general because there’s SO much that you can do with them. It’s a blank slate, just ready for you to make your mark!! We can bring props, fun colors, make it a theme… And I’m so here for it. I want personality for these photos, not a diluted version of you guys!! 

• The lighting is always good

Studios are created for good natural lighting, and that’s something that’s gonna impact your pictures!! Having built-in good lighting will make a lot of the planning process easier, since we won’t really have to worry about working around the sun or beating crowds. 

• There’s no stress about the weather 

When I’m planning outdoor family photoshoots, we always have to think about the unpredictable Tennessee weather. When we’re inside, though, we don’t need a backup plan!! And that’s something that makes things so much easier for you. No extra thinking, just showing up. And I love that for you.  

• You don’t have to clean your house

TBH… Not having to clean up at home is a huge part of why studio photoshoots work so well for families. You get that cozy feel, but don’t have to worry about the fact that there are bottles in the sink or dirty clothes on your floor. And let’s be real… You know that’s a HUGE plus!! 

How to Plan Your Studio Family Photos Without All the Chaos (Trust Me, I Gotchu)

I know that family photos sound scary AF, and even thinking about them probably sends a chill down any mom’s spine. And I fully get it. Take it from me, though: planning family photos doesn’t have to be hard. Actually, it can be hella easy!! As your Knoxville family photographer, you know I’ve got some tips for you: 

Pick a Location That Works for You

I get it, you probably don’t want to pick a spot that’s an hour away for your family photos. And for a GOOD REASON. Picking somewhere convenient to you that’s easy to get to will make your life easier, and I’m ALWAYS here to help with that. I know about all the best studios in Knoxville, and I’m always happy to help pick the one that will hold your story the best!! 

Make Sure Everyone’s Comfy

Everyone being dressed cozy, well-rested, and recently fed makes a WORLD of difference in getting good family photos!! With no one cranky and no one hangry, we’ll be able to get photos that actually feel like who you guys are, trust. Morning is usually best for this and for lighting, so that’s what I usually recommend for my families!! 

What to Wear for Studio Family Photos

My top tip for family photo outfits is to coordinate outfits, but NEVER match. Matching just… Doesn’t work, but coordinating hits every time. And as I said above, you always want to make sure everyone is dressed in something they’re comfortable in, both physically and in self-expression!!

Let Everyone Be Themselves (No Really)

My best tip as a Knoxville family photographer?? Let everyone be themselves, no matter how silly, how wild, or how “uncooperative” you think it is!! I’m someone who knows how to work with a lot of energy… Because I’m someone who has a lot of energy. And truly, you’ll get the best photos when you’re being natural and not some fake, forced version of yourself!! 

Ideas for a Funky Studio Family Photoshoot

Your studio family photos? They don’t have to be against a plain white backdrop with you guys all huddled on a couch. They can be a little wild, a little funky, as colorful as you want!! And honestly, those are my favorite types of sessions. The ones that feel like YOU. 

If you want some family photoshoot ideas that aren’t traditional or boring… I’ve gotchu. 

Have Retro Family Photos

I’m literally ALWAYS down for a theme, and retro family photos are so fun!! Whether it’s disco party themed or giving JCPenney photoshoot… I’m obsessed already.  

Celebrate a Holiday

Valentine’s Day, Halloween, and Christmas make for some hella fun family photoshoot themes. I did vintage Christmas mini sessions last year, and the vibes were IMMACULATE. 

Choose a Monochrome Color Palette

Monochrome is trending anddd I’m kind of in love. Everyone in the same color (but not matching) against a backdrop in the same color?? SO GOOD. 

Wear Funky Outfits

One of my favorite ideas is to have a fully white backdrop and have each of you wearing a BOLD AF color. Hot pinks, lime greens, bright oranges… Literally the dream!! Bonus points if you throw in some fun fabrics like a fur coat!! 

The Hoover Family’s Studio Family Photos

Okay, we took these family photos at The HighLight Studio in Knoxville to celebrate the Hoover family’s new addition (Baby Marley!), and the photos turned out seriously ADORABLE. Their outfits are definitely gonna be living rent-free in my brain, and the precious snuggles are just too much to handle!! 

My fave part about this shoot was how well this family trusted me. They let me help them plan the perfect session, they listened to my guidance and prompts, and the result is a gallery that’s not only so cute but also feels true to them. And that’s my goal EVERY TIME!! 

Wild Alchemy Photo | Knoxville Family Photographer

As a Knoxville family photographer, my job is to help you plan a family photoshoot that actually feels like your family. It doesn’t have to be wearing neutral colors, sitting perfectly still, and saying cheese. Because what really makes the photos good?? Your personalities. And we want them to SHIIINNNEEEE, babe!!! 

So, inquire today, and we’ll start planning a session together that really embraces who you guys are!!