Twin Photo Shoot: Taking Pictures of Your Multiples

By Elizabeth Lyons

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How often have you passed a photography studio, admired the adorable photos of infants and toddlers on display, and thought, "I would love a picture like that. But how on earth do their parents get them to 'perform'…and smile while doing it?"

Once we acknowledge how much we'd like to have such a treasured snapshot, it can feel as though there is a great crevasse to be jumped in order to actually acquire it. But fear not. With a few simple steps, you, too, can ensure that you are able to capture as much of your children's lives on film as you'd like - without having a nervous breakdown in the process!

The setting
First and foremost, you need to decide what kind of a photograph you want - and how much you are willing and able to spend in order to get it. Do you want a formal portrait? A fun, whimsical photo? A group photo with your entire family - including two dogs and a bird - that will be blown up to 20 x 30 and last forever? It's important to identify what you're hoping for in the final product in order to target the most appropriate photographer or studio.

To simplify matters, the least expensive and potentially quickest choice is likely a mainstream department store photography studio such as Sears Portrait Studio, JCPenney Portrait Studios, or WAL-MART Portrait Studio. However, if you're looking for a keepsake that will last forever, or if you're looking for a customized product, it's probably best to hire a professional photographer.

Department store portrait studios
Department store photo studios are extremely convenient - especially if you need a lot of photos for friends and relatives and are on a budget. You can view and select from digital photos immediately, the printing is done in a short timeframe, and there are almost always package deals available. Additionally, many of these establishments have a portrait club. If you plan to take your children for photos frequently, club membership can save you a considerable amount of money on sitting fees.

A downside of department store studios is that they can feel like portrait drive-thrus - especially if the photographer isn't terribly interested in photography that day (or at all). You're in, you're out, you're happy (or not). Your satisfaction isn't always the name of the game, and the photographers aren't always heavily trained in the art of portrait photography. That said, there are always exceptions to the rule, and I know a good number of people who have been thrilled with their photos from studios such as these because the price, the package, and the photographer were exactly what they needed.

Photo studios such as The Picture People or the studio available in some Babies R Us stores can also perfectly fit the bill. You can make an appointment to avoid waiting, or if you happen to be in the mall one day and your kids are unbelievably happy, dressed in coordinating outfits, and there's no line at the photo studio, you may be able to pop in spontaneously and get the perfect shot in no time! Be sure to keep your eyes out for coupons for free sittings, as they are availably almost constantly, and will save you enough money to buy an extra photo or two. The only downside to such studios is that you can't really mix and match photos. You can't get a 5 x 7 of one image and an 8 x 10 of another. Typically, you are offered packages of, say, one 8 x 10 or 2 5 x 7s or 4 wallets.

Another issue to consider when using a department store studio is time. The studios aren't always able to offer much flexibility should your children need a break to eat or to "get happy." The photographer may not be able to wait if there is another session scheduled immediately after yours. Therefore, when you make the appointment, inquire as to the length of your appointment slot. That way, you can determine whether or not you believe that the block of time is substantial enough to accomodate a few minutes here or there to settle or otherwise tend to a baby.