8 Tips to Prep for Your Family Photo Shoot

Make the most of your session with these simple, stress-free tips

Planning a family photo shoot? A little preparation can go a long way toward creating photos you’ll love for a lifetime. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, these eight tried-and-true tips will help your session go smoothly and feel relaxed — even fun.

1. Coordinate Outfits, Don’t Match

Choose a cohesive, neutral color palette and mix textures or patterns with pops of color. Avoid identical outfits — think complementary, not uniform. The goal is a natural, timeless look that doesn’t distract from what matters: your connection as a family.

2. Dress for the Setting

Are we shooting in a park? Downtown? Your home? Let the setting (and the season) inspire your wardrobe. Fall tones in the leaves, soft pastels in spring, cozy layers in winter — we want your outfits to feel like they belong.

3. Make Sure Everyone Is Comfortable

If something’s itchy, tight, or fussy, it’ll show in the photos. Choose clothes that feel good and fit well. Comfortable kids (and adults!) are confident and happy — and that always photographs beautifully.

4. Prep the Kids, Don’t Pressure Them

Tell your kids this will be fun — not a chore. Let them bring a favorite toy or give them a small role like “assistant photographer.” Avoid bribes or pressure. The more relaxed the vibe, the more natural the photos.

5. Arrive Well-Rested and Fed

A good night’s sleep and a light snack beforehand can make a huge difference — especially for little ones. And honestly? It helps adults, too. Hangry doesn’t photograph well.

6. Leave Plenty of Time

Running late leads to stress, and that energy shows. Build in buffer time for parking, hair fixes, and last-minute wrangling so you can arrive relaxed and ready.

7. Bring Touch-Up Items

Think: wipes, hairbrushes, lip balm, water, snacks, maybe even a backup outfit for the littlest family members. A small essentials bag can save the day.

8. Trust the Process

The best moments often happen between poses — when you’re just being yourselves. I’ll guide you into great light and natural interactions. You don’t have to force a thing. Just show up, connect, and enjoy the moment.

Ready to book your family session?

I’d love to help you capture meaningful, natural images of the people you love most. Contact me here to schedule your shoot.