2. PREPARE CLOTHING IN ADVANCE

Your clothing choices can significantly impact the outcome of your family photos. Don't wait until the last minute to decide on outfits or discover that your child's chosen attire doesn't fit properly. It's essential that your children feel comfortable in their outfits and agree with your choices. I suggest involving your child in the clothing selection process whenever possible. If your daughter dislikes dresses, forcing her into one is unlikely to result in a happy session.

Most importantly, you should choose outfits you feel comfortable and confident in, as feeling good translates to looking your best. If you opt for a flowy outfit, cinch it at the waist to avoid appearing larger in photos due to movement during your session. Mostly, you just want to make sure you look like you are going to the same event. No need to be overly matchy. You don't want to look like you're going to an cocktail party while your husband looks like he is going for a jog.

If you have a baby or toddler, consider bringing a spare outfit just in case. Unexpected accidents can happen, and having a backup will save the day.


3. PREPARE THE KIDS – WHAT TO EXPECT

Have a conversation with your children beforehand to prepare them for the photo session. For younger kids, explain that you're going to meet a friend at the park who will take pictures of your family so you can spend time with them and play with them. Assure them that they'll have fun and get to play some games during the process. While incentives like (we'll get ice cream after or go to the park and play) may be helpful... they could also backfire especially with really little ones. Make the portrait session about playing and having fun, not a thing to do to get another thing.

If you have a particularly shy or anxious child, inform your photographer before the session. You can also show your child some photos of me and my family on my About page so they can become familiar with the person behind the camera before we meet.


4. BRING AN ACTIVITY YOU ALL ENJOY

Think about activities your family enjoys doing together. If your toddler has a favorite book or small toy, bring it along. Engaging in an activity as a family not only helps everyone relax and forget about the camera but also allows me to capture authentic moments of your family's interactions. Activities help young ones engage and display genuine smiles.

For older children, activities like playing catch, piggyback rides, races, hiking, or dancing can bring out their personalities and create beautiful, genuine photos.


5. ENCOURAGE YOUR KIDS TO BE THEMSELVES

Every child is unique, with their own pace and energy levels. Embrace your child's personality and let go of worries about them acting differently during the session. Instead of instructing your kids on what to do or not do, let me guide them and focus on interacting with them. This approach often leads to happier and more relaxed kids (and you), resulting in photos you'll love.

If your child wants to explore or pick up a leaf, allow them to do so. If your toddler seeks comfort in your arms, that's perfectly fine too; I'll capture those tender moments.


6. EXPECT THE UNPREDICTABLE - THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP!

This may be the most challenging tip to accept, but it's essential for a successful family photo session. While we aim for perfection, we can't control everything. Kids and babies can have off days, even when well-rested and fed. If your child isn't in the mood to smile at the camera, avoid issuing commands or getting anxious. Trust me to capture the beauty in your family's candid moments. If there is one thing that I see diminishes a childs spirit and has them be less cooperative it's criticism (and we're all guilty of it - me included with my own kids). But try to refrain and let us guide them - if you must instead of saying things like "get your hand out of your mouth" - say "can you touch your belly button, or put your hand on my arm?" 


7. REMEMBER YOUR WHY

Why did you schedule this family photo session? While holiday cards may be one reason, your main goal is likely to capture your family's love, connection, and essence. You want photos that evoke emotions and memories of how life felt in those moments. These photos are destined to become family heirlooms. So, when things don't go as planned, remember that capturing genuine, emotional moments, even the imperfect ones, is what truly matters. Even the crying photos are likely to become treasures in the future.


8. LOOK AT YOUR KIDS, SMILE AT YOUR LOVED ONES

Take a moment to truly look at your children, cherish them, hug them, and kiss them. Think about how much you love them, even if they aren't cooperating at that moment. Keep smiling, even when things aren't going perfectly. Natural, genuine smiles often appear when parents focus on their children. Not every photo needs everyone looking at the camera simultaneously, especially in a lifestyle family session where the goal is to capture interactions.


9. RELAX AND ENJOY

You've gone through the effort of preparing your family and arriving on time. Now it's time to relax, have fun, and cherish moments with your loved ones. I'll take care of the logistics and guide you through the session. If your toddler needs a moment to run around, that's perfectly fine. I'll capture various shots, including candid moments between you and your spouse. Trust that your family's beauty will shine through in the photos as we interact, laugh, play, hug, and create lasting memories."

1. ENSURE EVERYONE IS WELL-RESTED AND SATISFIED

This might seem obvious, but it's crucial, especially when dealing with younger children. If your child still takes naps, make sure to plan your session around their nap time. Ensure they're well-fed and ready to go. Skipping nap time can lead to a less-than-ideal mood during the photo session. Hungry or tired kids are less likely to cooperate and smile for family photos.

Pack a tidy snack and some water, just in case your child gets hungry or thirsty during the session or needs a quick break (and don't forget to eat and drink water yourself)

...and if it's possible - Treat yourself and have someone else get the kids ready (grandparent?) so you can take time and get ready yourself and not feel rushed. It's all going to take longer than you expect. 😉 

Let's admit it, organizing a family photography session can be quite a task. But don't fret; I'm here to assist you. After years of capturing family moments, I've compiled some straightforward suggestions to ensure your family photo session is enjoyable and fruitful.

GUIDELINES FOR A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION