How to get comfortable for family photos

Family lifestyle photoshoots can be so much fun if you are prepared and relaxed the day of your session. I will do everything I can to make sure your family has fun during the session! My favorite images are the fun, candid ones where you’re all enjoying your time together. I’ve had the pleasure of working with families for years and have come up with a few tried and true pieces of advice to make your day as special as we possibly can.

Rest Up and Eat Well

Nothing will ruin a family photo session quite like a fussy kid. For the record, I don’t think any of us are the best version of ourselves when we’re tired or hungry. Make sure all family members are getting a good night's sleep the night prior and are well-fed before attending your photo shoot. You can even pack (clean!) snacks in case anyone needs a little pick-me-up during the session. Keep in mind, we should be planning your session around any younger kids' nap schedule to ensure they have plenty of energy to participate.

Pack Activities for the Family

Lifestyle photography revolves around capturing natural, unposed images. One of the easiest and most organic ways to do this is by having the family all participate in an activity together. This can be as simple as running after each other, engaging in playful activities, or even reading books together. It’s an added bonus if your kids can bring their favorite toys or stuffed animals. Not only will it make them more comfortable, but they will love looking back on the treasured memories with those toys down the road.

Be Prepared For Anything (and then let it go…)

You can go over every single detail prior to your photoshoot until you’re blue in the face, however, there is only so much we can do to make your day absolutely perfect. Trust me, I will do everything in my power to make it the best experience possible. Whether it’s bad weather or a fussy kid, sometimes there are factors that are simply out of our control. Maybe it’s raining, or your kids are having an off day and don't want to smile. It’s okay! By talking to your kids about what the day will look like, packing snacks and toys to keep them busy, and making sure they’re well-rested, we will roll with the punches and capture the most amazing images in the process.

Plan a Special Surprise for After the Session

Not that I’m saying you have to use this tactic as a bribery tool, but it does tend to get kids (and adults!) excited for something special after the photoshoot. Depending on the location we are going to for your session, it’s best to look around and see what there is to offer. Whether it’s an ice cream shop, a favorite restaurant, or a nearby playground, the options are endless.

Enjoy the Moment

I recognize the hard work it takes to wrangle a family together, let alone planning the outfits, arriving on time, etc.! So be proud of yourself that you did all that by the time you arrived at your photo session. With that being said, leave any stress that was involved prior to your arrival at the door (or in your car if we’re doing an outdoor session). Lifestyle family photo sessions are meant to be fun. You scheduled this for a reason! Let the happiness of spending time with your family shine through in every photo we take.

Now that you have everything you need to be prepared for your family photo shoot, let’s chat about when we can make it happen!