Happy family sits together on sandy path surrounded by tall beach grass on summer day at dunes.
I'll guide you through the entire process.

a few tips for your family session

Family photos don't have to be stressful. In fact, the best images often happen when everyone relaxes, has fun, and simply enjoys being together. Here are my top tips to help you get the most out of your family session.

People relaxing in tall beach grass during a sunset photo session at a sandy beach location.

01. Coordinate, Don't Match


Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same white shirt and jeans. Instead, choose a color palette that compliments one another.



Great options include:

  • Neutrals and earth tones
  • Soft blues and creams
  • Muted greens and tans
  • Warm fall colors



Try to mix textures and layers while avoiding large logos, neon colors, and busy patterns that can distract from your faces.

A smiling blonde woman in a pink dress holds a baby while a young girl in green hugs her in a sunny park.

02. dress for comfort


If you're uncomfortable, it will show in your photos.



Choose clothing that:

  • Fits well and allows movement
  • Makes you feel confident
  • Is appropriate for the weather and location
  • Allows children to play comfortably



When in doubt, slightly dressier than everyday clothing photographs beautifully.

Dalmatian dog in orange sweater leads group of four people on autumn forest trail covered in colorful fallen leaves.

03. think about shoes


Shoes are often overlooked but can make or break a coordinated look.



Avoid:

  • Athletic sneakers (unless they fit the style)
  • Brightly colored shoes
  • Worn or scuffed footwear


Choose shoes that complement your outfit and the overall feel of the session.

Family of three walking hand-in-hand through a sunny green orchard on a warm spring day.

04. prepare young children ahead of time


Kids do best when they know what's coming!



A few days before your session:

  • Talk positively about it
  • Tell them you'll be playing games and having fun
  • Avoid making the session sound like a chore
  • Skip phrases like "You better behave" or "You need to smile"


Children tend to mirror the energy around them.

Family of four smiling together on a scenic autumn forest path surrounded by colorful fall foliage.

05. don't bribe with "smile"


Instead of asking children to smile, engage with them naturally.


During the session:

  • Snuggle them
  • Whisper something silly
  • Play little games
  • Tickles and giggles are welcome


Authentic expressions always photograph better than forced smiles.

Happy family of three sitting on grass by a wooden fence, laughing and hugging at golden hour.

06. plan around naps and meals


This one is huge. A well-rested and fed child is much more likely to enjoy the session.


Before your session:

  • Avoid scheduling during normal nap times
  • Eat a meal beforehand
  • Bring non-messy snacks and water


Hungry toddlers have a remarkable talent for ending photo sessions early. 

Happy family of six posing together on a sandy beach, wearing coordinated white and blue outfits.

07. trust the process


Not every child will look at the camera. Not every moment will be perfectly posed; That's okay.


Some of the most meaningful images happen:

  • When your child is snuggled into your shoulder
  • While siblings are laughing together
  • During a spontaneous hug
  • In the quiet moments between poses


Happy family of four with red hair smiling at the beach on a sunny day.

08. let go of perfection


Real life is beautiful.



If your toddler runs away, your child gets shy, or someone decides they no longer enjoy being photographed halfway through the session, don't panic.


I've seen it all, and those situations rarely affect the final gallery as much as parents think they will.

Family of four walking hand-in-hand along a sandy beach with scenic bluffs and trees in the background.

09. focus on connection


This one is huge. A well-rested and fed child is much more likely to enjoy the session.


Before your session:

  • Avoid scheduling during normal nap times
  • Eat a meal beforehand
  • Bring non-messy snacks and water


Hungry toddlers have a remarkable talent for ending photo sessions early. 

Family of six poses at a wooden fence during a stunning ocean sunset, wearing casual fall outfits in warm tones.

10. mom, get in the photos!


This one deserves its own section.



Many moms spend so much time making sure everyone else looks perfect that they forget about themselves. Years from now, your children won't care if you had the perfect outfit, lost the last ten pounds, or had your hair exactly right.


They'll care that you were there.


Get in the frame. Hug your babies. Let yourself be seen.


Family of four posing in sunflower field, parents holding children, smiling outdoors at golden hour.

11. arrive ready to enjoy yourselves


The best thing you can bring to your session isn't a perfect outfit or perfectly behaved children. It's a relaxed attitude.


Things may not go exactly according to plan, and that's completely okay. Family sessions are about preserving this season of life exactly as it is right now. The laughter, the chaos, the cuddles, the personalities, and the love.


Those are the moments worth remembering.

Family of five enjoying a golden sunset beach session on sandy dunes near a pier, with parents and children smiling together.

12. my biggest tip


Don't worry about creating perfect photos.


Focus on creating memories together, and the beautiful photos will follow naturally.