Top Tips for a Successful Family Photo Session
Family photo day is here! The outfits are coordinated, the kids are mostly cooperative, and you’ve probably reminded everyone at least twenty times not to get dirty before leaving the house.
Sound familiar?
As much as we all dream of perfectly effortless family photos, the truth is that the magic happens when everyone feels relaxed, prepared, and ready to simply enjoy being together. Here are my favorite tips to help your session run smoothly and result in images you’ll cherish for years to come.
1. Trust Me to Get the Kiddos Looking
This is my number one tip!
Parents, once you’re posed, stay posed and keep your eyes on the camera. It is my job to get your little ones looking my direction. I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve—silly noises, songs, games, and a few secrets that only photographers know.
If you’re busy tickling, pointing, or trying to get your child to look at me, chances are they’ll look up while you’re looking at them. Trust the process and let me do the entertaining while you simply enjoy the moment.
2. Plan Haircuts and New Hairstyles Ahead of Time
Thinking about fresh haircuts before picture day? Wonderful! Just don’t schedule them on the same day.
I always recommend planning haircuts and color appointments at least two weeks before your session. This allows time for adjustments if needed and gives your hair a chance to settle and look more natural. Plus, it removes one more thing from your to-do list on session day.
3. Coordinate—Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and blue jeans.
Instead, think coordinating colors rather than matching outfits. Solid colors tend to photograph beautifully, while busy patterns and stripes can be distracting. If one family member wears a pattern, have everyone else wear colors that complement it.
A mix of soft neutrals, earth tones, or coordinating shades of denim and khaki creates a timeless, cohesive look while still letting everyone’s personality shine.
4. Prioritize Sleep
This tip isn’t just for the kids.
A good night’s sleep can make a world of difference for everyone involved. Tired little ones may struggle with patience, but tired parents can feel just as overwhelmed.
Well-rested families are happier, more relaxed, and much more likely to enjoy the experience.
5. Feed Everyone Before Getting Dressed
This little tip can save the day.
Try to have everyone eat before getting into their session clothes. Full bellies generally mean happier moods, and avoiding snacks after everyone is dressed can help prevent unexpected spills, stains, and wardrobe emergencies.
Because somehow jelly and white shirts always seem to find each other.
6. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
The goal is to arrive feeling calm—not frazzled.
Plan enough time for showers, getting dressed, and those inevitable last-minute moments that always seem to happen. I recommend arriving about 15 minutes early whenever possible.
Children especially benefit from having a few moments to adjust to a new environment. When everyone feels relaxed, beautiful things happen.
7. Be Prepared for the Weather
Outdoor sessions are full of beauty and adventure, but Mother Nature sometimes likes to keep us on our toes.
If there’s snow, mud, or rain, don’t hesitate to wear boots and a coat while walking to our location. Bring an umbrella if needed and keep comfort in mind.
A little weather rarely ruins a session—in fact, sometimes it creates some of the most memorable moments.
Most Importantly… Have Fun
Perfect isn’t the goal.
The sweetest photographs often come from the in-between moments—the giggles, the cuddles, the way your child reaches for your hand, or the way everyone bursts into laughter over something silly.
Come ready to love on your people, trust the process, and let your personalities shine.
I’ll take care of the rest.
