Let’s face it…planning a family photo session can be challenging. Not to worry. I’m here to help. Over the years of photographing families, I’ve come up with some simple tips to ensure you have a fun and successful family photo session.

1. Make sure the kids are rested and fed

Okay. I know that sounds obvious, but this is important, especially with younger kids. If your child still naps, make sure you put her down with plenty of time to allow a full nap AND extra time to get her fed and ready. We all know that hungry and/or tired kids are cranky and not likely to smile happily for family photos.

I recommend that you bring along a small snack (one that isn’t messy please), and water, just in case your child does get hungry or thirsty in the middle of your session.

2. Plan clothing in advance

Clothing choices can have a huge impact on how much you love your family photos. Don’t wait until a few days before to choose clothing or have your kids try on an outfit or shoes, only to discover it doesn’t fit.

When you book a session with me, I’ll provide guidance in choosing clothing that will photograph well and reflect your personality. I’ll also share my Wardrobe Inspire Guide with lots of great do’s and don’ts.

Most important, I recommend moms choose an outfit they feel comfortable and beautiful in since when you feel good, you look your best.

Need a little inspiration? You can also check out my Pinterest Board Here.

If you have a baby or toddler, I also recommend bringing along a back up outfit, just in case! Occasionally things happen, so if your spirited son takes a small spill in the dirt, you’ll be thankful you brought a back-up pair of pants.

3. Prepare the kids – What to tell them

I recommend you talk to your kids in advance to prepare them for your session. For younger kids, tell them you are going meet a friend at the park who will take your pictures.

If you have a child who is especially shy or anxious around strangers it can be helpful to meet your photographer before your session. When possible, I love being able to meet children during the pre-session consult that I provide families with before their session. If this isn’t possible, take a look at my About page with your child to see a few photos of me and my family.

4. Bring an activity that you enjoy doing as a family

I love to incorporate activities that families enjoy during a session. It not only gives them something to do, which helps them relax and forget about the camera, but it also allows me to capture storytelling images of your family. For parents with young kids, bringing along a favorite book and blanket to sit on can be a great option. Activities help engage little ones, and bring out authentic smiles.

For older kids, playing catch, piggy back rides, races, hiking, and dancing, are great activities that allow children to have fun and be themselves. I can capture beautiful and authentic photos when kids are doing what they love.

5. Let your kids be themselves

Every child is different. Some are slower to warm up, while others are a ball of energy. However your child shows up is OK! I promise.

I find sessions go best when parents allow me to direct their kids and follow my prompts and directions. When parents focus on interacting with their kids, rather than telling them what to do or not do, kids are happier and more relaxed.

If your child wants to wander and pick up a pretty leaf off the ground, let him. But if your toddler just wants to be in your arms then I’ll capture her sweet cuddles with you.

6. Expect the unexpected

This may be the hardest tip to embrace. But I think it’s one of the most important tips to a successful family photo session. I get it. You want everything to be perfect. I do too! But the truth is that no matter how carefully we plan, we can’t control how everything will go. Kids have off days, even when they’ve been fed and are well-rested. Maybe little Jack just doesn’t feel like looking and smiling at the camera. When this happens, some parents get overly anxious and start to issue commands to their kids to “smile, or else….” Kids pick up on this so quickly. Trust me. This will NEVER lead to happy smiles.

The best thing you can do when this happens is to take a deep breath and trust me to see and capture the beauty in the moment.

7. Focus on your WHY

Why did you book your family photo session? Was it to get that perfect family photo for a holiday card? Sure, that might be one reason, but hopefully it’s not your main reason. If you’ve chosen me to photograph your family, you want photos that show more than how your family looks at this moment in time. You want images that truly capture your family’s love and connection. You want images that will evoke emotion, and trigger a memory of how life in that moment felt. You want photos that will become family heirlooms.

8. Look at your kids

Yes. I mean really look at them. Breathe them in like the first time your baby was placed in your arms. Hug them and kiss them.

When parents’ eyes are on their children, they give the most natural, relaxed and beautiful smiles. As a mom, I cherish these types of images the most and I hope you will too because they portray your family’s connection and love.

Remember, not everyone has to be looking at the camera at the same time in every image. In fact, if you’ve hired me for a lifestyle family session, you know this is not the goal of your session.

As your photographer, I’ll capture all of the emotions–whether it’s a joyful moment of you and your family giggling or your husband comforting your crying baby. Because those are the images that reflect your family and tell your story.

9. Relax and Have Fun

You got your family dressed and ready and arrived on time for your session. Congratulations! I know it isn’t easy. Now it’s time to relax, have fun and enjoy spending time with your loved ones. Let me do all the work. Hey, that’s why you hired me. 🥰

I’ll handle all the directing and if your toddler needs some time to run around, no problem. I’ll capture a few shots of you and your spouse. I find that giving kids a few moments to explore, while I focus on other family members often makes them want to be part of the picture.

We’ll play games and I’ll guide you into genuine interactions with your family. You’ll snuggle, hold hands, laugh, play, give hugs and kisses, and tickle your children. I’ll show you that your children and your family are beautiful, just as you are!