Photos by Cheryl - Tips on Social Distancing Summer Family Photos

Summer is finally in full swing, and so many people I know couldn’t be happier. Many families are finally coming outside and enjoying the sunshine (albeit safely).

That being said, I’m afraid to say it but social distancing is going to have to keep happening this summer. That doesn't mean your next summer outing or family get together has to be boring though! If you know none of you aren’t going to get sick or you’ve already quarantined for 14 days after being sick, it’s fine to come and safely celebrate your family’s next event no matter what they may be.

If this is a big year for you and your family already, social distancing aside, it’s a good time to hire a professional photographer who understands the need to continue staying safe and practices social distancing even after lockdown has long since been lifted. So, to honour the occasion, here are some tips for socially distanced summer family photos this year.

Do postpone if you’re sick!

Though restrictions have slightly lifted in the past months, there are still cases and a potential for further complications from COVID-19 if we're not careful. No amount of photographs are worth taking if you or a loved one is in fact sick and in need of medical attention and care. Do take precautions and don't schedule any photo sessions until everything is given a green light. Your health and the health of your loved ones come first and foremost!

There’s nothing wrong with a staycation

If you and your family are stumped on where to get photos taken during a session right now, don't worry about it. Sometimes the comfort of your home is enough (especially this year!)! 

If you're all feeling especially cooped up and insist on going outside, here are some tips:

• Choose a location that has minimal foot traffic; parks are always a good choice, as are beaches, piers, and other natural areas such as the Coquitlam River.
• The best time of the day for family photos at the park or a similar outdoor location is either in the early morning or late in the afternoon or evening. This guarantees that there will be less people hanging around and keeping the need for social distancing at the forefront.
• Dress appropriately for the season. As of this post's release, July is a hot month in the Vancouver and Lower Mainland areas, so wear light and cool clothing for best results.
• Take care of your skin! Wear sunscreen if the morning or evening is fairly bright still and drink lots of water to stay hydrated. That goes for both you and the kids!

Big family? Let me help

My organizational skills are exceptional when it comes to orchestrating big family photo sessions...I love the challenge, is why! Extended family members are also a specialty of mine when it comes to professional photography. I've had the pleasure of capturing several generations together on camera. If this is the year when you want to honour your family and its legacy, there's no harm in checking out my Family photo galleries (both indoor and outdoor) to see if I'm the best fit for you.

So, looking to have some fun this summer with your family? Do you want to look back on this year and have some positive and warm memories to cherish? Contact me today to book your family photo session. You go ahead and have fun during the session, and I'll capture the photos you need—safely, and from a distance.

Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Photos by Cheryl and a clickable link back to this page.