Your session is booked! Now what?! If you haven’t put it in your calendar, go ahead and do that now. (Did you do it or tell yourself you’ll do it later? Now’s the best time–I’ll wait!) Family sessions should be fun, not stressful. The best way to make that happen? A little prep. Here’s how to set your kids (and yourself) up for success so we capture those joyful, natural moments you’ll love forever. How to prepare kids for family photos:
1. Set the Right Expectations
Before the session, let your kids know what to expect. Keep it light and positive! Give the kids a heads up so they know what we’re doing. Say something like, “My friend is going to take pictures of us having fun together!” instead of “You better behave!”—trust me, happy kids make for better photos than kids worried about losing their post-session ice cream. If you want to offer a treat for after (and I think that’s a great idea), don’t tie it to their behavior. I’ve never seen a kid smile bigger because Dad threatened to take away their ice cream date. I’ve got 4 kids, so trust me when I say I know what it feels like to have your kids struggle during a session.
2. Timing is Everything
Sessions are scheduled around the best light of the day—early morning or before sunset for outdoor sessions, and mid morning for in-home sessions. Plan ahead for travel and parking so you’re not rushed. Arriving a few minutes early helps everyone settle in and start on a relaxed note. Pay attention to your kids sleep schedules when planning. If your little one goes to bed at 7, a late evening summer session may not be the best fit.
3. Keep the Mood Positive
One of the best way to prepare your kids for family photos is to prepare yourself mentally. Kids pick up on stress, so the more relaxed and upbeat you are, the better they’ll do. If they take a few minutes to warm up, that’s totally normal! I’ll guide them, keep things fun, and go with the flow. If a certain pose isn’t working, we’ll switch it up and try again later—no big deal! I’m good at encouraging kids and being flexible around what they’re feeling, and they can feel that and will relax into it. I want them to be my friend during the session, and we’ll joke and laugh. As a parent, the little things they do may feel naughty and like they’re not trying. But I promise it doesn’t bother me at all. Trust me and trust the process, and I promise we’ll get beautiful images.
4. Dress for Success
Choosing the right outfits makes a big difference. Here are some quick tips:
- Pick an outfit YOU love first (moms, I’m looking at you!) and build the rest of the family’s looks around it.
- Stick with coordinating colors rather than matching outfits.
- Neutral and earth tones (beige, blues, greens, soft pinks) look amazing on camera.
- Dresses add beautiful movement and variety to poses.
- Avoid bold patterns, words, and logos.
- Don’t forget the shoes—yes, they matter! No too-tight or too-loose or brand-new-pinching shoes for the kids. Your shoes will be in the images, so find something you like the look of, but also something you can walk around in.
Need more outfit inspiration? Check out my what to wear guide.
5. Be Flexible and Trust the Process
Every child is different—some are instantly ready to smile, while others take a little time. That’s okay! I’ve been photographing families for years, and I know how to work with different personalities. If your kiddo isn’t into a certain pose, we’ll pivot. Some of the best shots happen in those candid, in-between moments.
6. What if You Have Questions?
Thanks for investing time into learning how to prepare your kids for family photos. If you have any questions, I’m here for you! If you need anything—from location ideas to wardrobe advice—just shoot me an email. Let’s make this a fun, easy experience for your family. See you soon!
📸 Ready to book your session? Let’s make some magic! https://jenwhitephoto.com/contact
Here’s a few more blogs you might enjoy:
My location guide: Top Locations for Albany Oregon Family Photos
4 Can’t Miss Spots For Spring Flowers with Family in Salem, OR
Four Super Fun Children’s Museums Near Salem, OR
7 Awesome Kid Friendly Hikes in Corvallis Your Family Will Love
