Tips for A Successful Family Photo Session

Let’s be honest, planning a family photo session isn’t always easy. Between coordinating outfits, juggling nap times, and making sure everyone is out the door on time, it can feel like a big task. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be stressful.

Over the years of photographing families across New Jersey, I’ve learned a few simple family photography tips that help sessions go more smoothly and allow families to enjoy the experience. My goal is for your photos to reflect your love and connection — not stiff smiles. Here’s how to prepare for a photo session so it feels fun, stress-free, and successful.

1. Make Sure the Kids are Rested and Fed Before Your Family Photo Session

It sounds obvious, but it’s so important. Well-rested, well-fed kids are happier kids — and happy kids make for joyful photos.

If your child still naps, plan plenty of time for a full rest before your session.
Offer a snack and some water before you leave, and pack a non-messy snack (like crackers, apple slices, or granola bars) just in case.
Avoid sugary or sticky treats that can stain clothing or leave little fingers sticky.

Don’t worry if your toddler needs a quick snack break — that’s totally normal. We’ll pause, let them regroup, and get right back into the fun.

2. Plan Your Family Photo Outfits In Advance

Clothing choices can have a big impact on how much you love your family photos. Give yourself time to plan outfits, try them on, and make sure everyone feels comfortable. In fact, I suggest that you include your child in the process as much as possible. If you’re daughter hates dresses, don’t try to force her to wear one and then expect her to feel happy during your session.

Choose soft, muted colors or subtle patterns that complement (but don’t compete with) the setting.

Let kids have a say if possible — forcing them into something they hate will only create stress. Comfort equals confidence.

For babies or toddlers, bring a backup outfit — spills and dirt happen!

When you book with me, I’ll share my Wardrobe Inspire Guide full of do’s and don’ts, plus outfit ideas for every season. You can also check out my blog posts for inspiration:

Pro tip: Moms — choose your outfit first! Pick something that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable, then coordinate the rest of the family around you.

What to Wear for Spring Family Photos

What to Colors Wear for Fall Family Photos

What Colors to Wear for Summer Family Photos

What Not to Wear for Family Photos

3. Prepare the Kids for Family Photos

Help your kids know what to expect. Keep it light and fun:

For younger kids, tell them you’re meeting a friend at the park who will take some pictures while you play.
Reassure them there will be games, laughter, and fun — not stiff posing.
If your child is especially shy, show them my About page ahead of time so they can see my face before we meet.

Preparing kids for family photos helps them arrive feeling excited instead of nervous, and makes your family portraits more enjoyable.

4. Bring A Favorite Activity for Your Session

Activities are wonderful for helping kids relax and creating natural, storytelling moments.

For little ones: bring a favorite book, toy, or blanket.
For older kids: think piggyback rides, tossing a ball, or even a family dance-off.

These little moments of play often lead to the most authentic smiles and connections— the heart of lifestyle family photography.

5. Let the Kids Be Themselves

Every child has their own personality. Some are shy and observant, others are full of energy. Both are wonderful.

The best sessions happen when parents let go of control and allow me to guide the kids with gentle direction. Focus on loving your children, not correcting them — the result is happier kids and photos you’ll treasure.

If your child wanders off to pick a flower or just wants to be held, that’s okay. I’ll capture those sweet in-between moments that make your family unique.

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 and this results in images that parents love.

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, that’s okay too. I’ll capture her sweet cuddles with you.

6. Expect the Unexpected

Even with perfect planning, life happens. Babies cry. Toddlers get wiggly. Kids sometimes just don’t feel like smiling.

The key is to embrace it instead of fighting it. If you stay relaxed, your kids will too. And some of the most meaningful images come from the unexpected — a comforting hug, a silly giggle, or even a tearful cuddle in mama’s arms.

Trust me to capture the beauty in every moment, not just the “perfect” ones.

7. Focus on Your WHY

Why did you book this session? Chances are, it wasn’t just for a holiday card.

You booked because you want to preserve this season of life — the snuggles, the laughter, the way your toddler curls into you, the way your kids look at each other. You want photos that show the essence of your family — images that become heirlooms and bring back memories years from now.

So when the chaos comes (and it usually does), remember your why. That’s where the magic lives.

8. Look at Your Kids, Smile at Your Spouse

The most beautiful smiles happen when you’re focused on your people. Don’t worry about the camera — look at your kids, laugh with your spouse, breathe it all in.

Not everyone needs to be looking at the camera at once. In fact, the best lifestyle family photos happen when you’re interacting naturally with each other.