Halloween Idea: Try an Early Photo Shoot

I realize I share this tip every year, but it's a really good tip that I always want to remind people about: whenever there's a photo-worthy moment (Easter dresses, Halloween costumes, fancy Christmas outfits, etc.) do a "dress rehearsal" and take pictures long before the day of the event. 

Every Halloween, I dress the kids up a few days early (this time it was a few weeks early...) and snap the pictures I use for my scrapbook.  The night of Halloween is usually rushed and with the kids' excitement, getting a decent picture is too much pressure for them and for me. 

A while back, I found a set of white sheets on clearance and use them as the backdrop of my photos.  It helps bring the attention to the kids, not the busy background.




I had two costume choices for Jason this year, and am very glad I learned early that the lion outfit was a no-go.  He HATED it, desperately using his paw-hands to pull the hood off of his head.  It was hysterically sad to watch.  And, of course, I got pictures and video of the drama.

Jason hated the Squirt costume a little less, but he wouldn't sit still on the sheets very long, so I will have to get his individual picture later.

Everyone else cooperated, though!  The big kids were absolute angels, posing and smiling like pros.