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I love when my former wedding clients come back with their families! It's always a joy watching their families grow!
Everything You Need to Know About Family Photo Sessions
Family photo sessions shouldn't feel like a chore. This guide breaks down how to prepare, where to shoot, how to coordinate outfits without stress, and what to pack to ensure happy kids and effortless portraits.
The Family Portrait Process
- Step 1: Booking & Planning: Choose a season and location that fits your family's personality. We’ll discuss the vibe, best time of day, and any specific group combinations you need.
- Step 2: Preparing the Kids: Set expectations early! Tell children you’re going on a fun adventure to play and hang out as a family, rather than telling them they "have to behave for photos."
- Step 3: The Session: Expect a mix of classic "everyone looking at the camera" shots and interactive, candid prompts—playing tag, tickle fights, walking together, and genuine laughs.
- Step 4: Image Delivery: You will receive the option to purchase a full high-resolution digital gallery perfect for family albums, canvas prints, and holiday cards as well as the option to purchase prints.
Choosing the Best Locations
- Parks & Open Fields: Great for active kids who need space to run around. Tall grass, trees, and wide-open trails provide gorgeous natural lighting.
- Urban Downtowns: Perfect for families wanting a modern, stylish backdrop with colorful brick walls, architectural staircases, and cute storefronts.
- In-Home Lifestyle: Intimate, cozy, and relaxed. Ideal for families with toddlers or newborns, focusing on your authentic everyday life in your favorite space.
What to Wear: Wardrobe & Color Coordination
- Coordinate, Don't Match: Avoid everyone wearing identical outfits (like matching white shirts and jeans). Instead, pick a palette of 3–4 complementary colors (e.g., cream, sage green, rust, and denim).
- Start with One Anchor Outfit: Pick Mom's or a daughter's floral dress first, then pull coordinating solid colors from that pattern for the rest of the family.
- Add Texture & Layers: Cardigans, jackets, denim, lace, and knits add visual interest and depth to photos.
- What to Avoid: Heavy logos, graphic tees, character shoes, neon colors, and matching neon accessories.
What to Bring: Family Prep Checklist
- Mess-Free Snacks: Mini marshmallows, puff snacks, or fruit snacks (avoid chocolate, bright juices, or sticky candies).
- Water Cups/Bottles: Keep everyone hydrated, especially for warm outdoor shoots.
- Touch-Up Essentials: Baby wipes for sticky hands/faces, a lint roller, lip balm, and a hairbrush.
- Comfortable Footwear: Flat shoes or boots for walking between spots (heels can sink into grass).
- Favorite Toy or Comfort Item: A beloved stuffed animal or small toy to capture smiles or comfort younger children if needed.
Pro Tip for Parents: Kids feed off your energy! If a toddler drops to the grass or acts silly, stay calm and keep smiling. The best candid moments usually happen when parents let go of perfection and just engage with their kids.
Frequently Asked Questions: Maternity & Family Sessions
How far in advance should we book a family session? It is best to reach out 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially for peak seasons like summer golden hour and fall foliage. If you are booking maternity photos, reaching out during your second trimester guarantees prime availability on the calendar.
What happens if my kids don't cooperate or sit still? Don't stress! The best family photos come from real, playful interactions—not forced smiles. My approach is high-energy, patient, and fun. We’ll play games, run around, and do tickle fights to capture genuine laughs. If a toddler needs a quick breather, we just pivot and keep things relaxed.
Can we include partners and older children in maternity sessions? Yes, absolutely! While we will dedicate plenty of time to individual portraits focusing on Mom and her bump, partners and big brothers/sisters are always welcome and encouraged to join in to celebrate the growing family.
What if it rains or someone gets sick on shoot day? Life happens, especially with little ones! If someone wakes up sick or severe weather hits, we will reschedule your session to the next available date at no additional fee. Light overcast weather, however, actually creates gorgeous, soft lighting for portraits.
When and how will we get our photos? Your fully edited, high-resolution digital gallery will be delivered via a private online link within 2 to 3 weeks. You can easily download your high-res files, share the link with relatives, and order professional-grade prints and canvases directly from your gallery.
