Hey everyone! Whether you’ve got a session booked with me this fall or with another photographer, it’s natural to wonder how to get your kiddos ready. You’ve put in valuable time and resources, and you want everything to go smoothly. Here are some helpful tips to prepare your kids for your family photography session.
I understand that having family photos taken can cause some real anxiety, and I’m here to help ease those worries. If you're my client, you’ll have access to a comprehensive welcome site filled with specific tips to ensure your little ones have the best experience possible. I also want to share this article for those who might be hesitant about scheduling a session, as it complements the materials on my welcome site.
1. First, check out my post on What To Wear To Your Session by clicking HERE. This will help you choose the best clothing for the occasion.
2. Next, trust your photographer. As a lifestyle family photographer, I want you to relax. It's like when an unexpected guest arrives at your home—you suddenly notice the socks on the couch or the spilled milk, but they probably don’t see those things at all. You might be focused on minor mishaps, but I see the beauty beyond that. Lifestyle photography allows you to let go of the need for perfection. My goal isn’t to create posed, stiff images; it’s to capture your children just as they are—perfectly unique. With years of experience photographing families, I know how to help even the most camera-shy kids relax and shine. You chose me for my portfolio, so let me transform your children into art. I promise I will
3. Prepare them for the experience. I truly believe in being open with children. In the days leading up to the session, let them know that a friend will be taking family photos. Share that we'll be visiting a fun park or beach where we’ll get to play together. Explain that your friend will ask them to pose in different ways, and reassure them that they’ll be part of the photos. You can also mention that the session will be quick—usually around 45 minutes to an hour—and I’ll capture plenty of great moments. Just take a look at my blog!
4. Share past family photos with them. When kids see that this experience will create a collection of fun photos, they’re often more excited. Even if all you have are iPhone snapshots, it can have the same effect. Most kids love to see pictures of themselves!
5. Make sure that they are fed and rested. I know. We just talked and I said we had to shoot at 7 pm to get the best light. But this can be remedied by putting them down for a late nap that day or if they don't nap, clearing your schedule on photo day to allow them to rest before the shoot. Don't go on a hike and then to a soccer game on the same day as your photo shoot. Make your photo session the main event. Feed them dinner or a big snack before the session so they aren't hangry. Hungry kids are never easy to work with.
6. Consider a fun treat for afterward. I want to emphasize the difference between a reward and a bribe. When parents say things like, “Remember that ice cream?” in a frustrated tone, it can backfire—I totally get it! Instead, before the session, try saying something like, “After we finish, we’ll all go out for burgers and shakes!” or whatever sounds appealing. This way, you turn the experience into a joyful family outing.
7. I won’t force your child to smile. If they do smile, it will be genuine and from a place of happiness. I appreciate authentic, thoughtful portraits of children and will never push your child to leave your arms if they’re not ready. My approach is to capture them exploring and being themselves, and I’ll weave in some candid portraits naturally as we go.
8. Show them a picture of me. Head over to my About page and share a photo so I don’t seem like a stranger. This will help them see me as a relatable person. You can even check out my personal Instagram to show them pictures of my kids and family. This way, they’ll see I’m just like you! :)
I promise, 99.9% of my sessions are fun and relaxed. My approach is laid-back, and many families have told me their kids said they actually enjoyed the session. That’s probably why they come back year after year—we really do have a good time!
I’m looking forward to all the upcoming sessions in the next few months! I hope you’re excited too!
THANK YOU!!
Rose