HOW TO PREPARE YOUR LITTLE ONES FOR PHOTOS

Family

How to Prepare Children for a Photoshoot: A Family Photographer’s Guide.

I LOVE family sessions and they have become my absolute favorite thing to photograph over the recent years. A family photoshoot can be such an important part of remembering your children’s milestones, but let’s be real—keeping kids happy, cooperative, and engaged can sometimes feel like a challenge! Here’s a handy guide to help parents prepare their little ones for a smooth, stress-free photoshoot.

BEFORE THE PHOTOSHOOT:

1. Pick the Right Time of Day
I suggest working around your child’s schedule as much as possible. Choose a time when they’re typically well-rested and not hungry (e.g., after a nap or meal). Avoid nap times or immediately after school.

2. Dress Comfortably and Thoughtfully
Comfort is key, especially for children! Make sure their outfits are comfy and allow them to move freely. Avoid itchy fabrics or anything too tight.
Plan backups: Bring an extra outfit for babies, just in case of spills or accidents.

3. Discuss the Photoshoot Ahead of Time
Set expectations: Explain to your child what will happen during the session in simple terms. Get them excited! Frame it as a fun activity (and it can be! I always think it’s great to incorporate activities you enjoy together as a family.)

4. Bring Comfort Items
Pack familiar objects: A favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal can help soothe nerves and even double as a cute prop for babies or toddlers!

DURING THE PHOTOSHOOT:

1. Keep the Mood Light and Fun
Be playful, encourage natural smiles by playing games, singing songs, or making silly faces.

*Let them be themselves: Some of the best photos happen when kids are relaxed and candid.*

2. Take Breaks
Short attention spans are normal. Allow time for breaks if the session is longer, especially for younger children.

3. Trust your photographer!
Trust me, I’ve seen it all with family sessions and I will not be bothered if your child cries for half the session. I will be able to provide you with plenty of great photos of your family and have never had to do a reshoot from to it going horribly.

I will be helping everyone through the entire session using prompts to get you moving and having fun. As a reminder, sessions with me are more candid and documentary style, NOT overly posed! We will get a few “traditional” photos, but for the most part they will be authentic and natural. This method usually goes over pretty well with children (and husbands lol.)

CHECKLIST: WHAT TO PACK

Snacks and water

Extra outfit, just in case!

Comfort items (toys, blankets)

Distraction Tools: Small toys, bubbles, or books to keep them entertained during downtime (these can also be incorporated into photos so don’t worry if they want to play with a toy for a minute!)

Wet wipes for quick cleanups

A positive attitude! 🙂

*Note: I do offer year round 15 minute sessions locally! These are good for if you you are still worried about booking a longer session for younger children or family members that are particularly unenthused about the idea of a photoshoot. This is still plenty of time for us to get several beautiful photos to document holidays or milestones.