Tips & Resources

How To Best Prepare Your Kids For A Family Photo Session

I'm Stephanie
And I’m A Big Fan Of Capturing The Ordinary Moments That Make Life Extraordinary
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Family photo sessions are a great way to capture memories and create lasting keepsakes for your family’s home. Whether you’re planning to celebrate a milestone or simply want to document your family’s growth over time, these moments provide an opportunity to share a fun activity and get souvenirs of your time together.

However, preparing young children for a photo shoot can sometimes feel stressful. It’s important to plan ahead so the session goes smoothly and everyone has fun. Consider this blog post your ultimate guide to preparing your kids for a family photo session, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, relaxed, and ready to be in front of the camera. 

Set Expectations

The first step in preparing your kids for a family photo session is setting clear expectations. If your children are young, they may not fully understand what a photo session involves, so it’s important to explain it in a way that makes sense to them. Let them know what will happen during the photo session and maybe even show them a picture of your photographer! This can help establish a good level of comfort so your kids don’t feel blindsided when they’re put in front of a camera. 

Involve Them In The Process

You can make the idea of a family photo session exciting by involving your kiddos in the process leading up to your shoot day. Ask for their thoughts on what they want to wear or how they might want to pose for a shot. When kids feel like they have a say, they’re more likely to approach the session with excitement and enthusiasm. 

Time It Right

Timing is crucial when it comes to planning a successful family photo session. You’ll want to pick a time when your kids are well-rested, fed, and in a generally good mood. This might mean scheduling the session after a nap for younger children or at a time when older kids are usually relaxed and not focused on other activities. It’s also important to avoid planning the shoot during meals, naptime, or right before bedtime, as these can lead to crankiness or a lack of energy.

Plan Comfortable Outfits

What your family wears to a photo session plays a huge role in the overall feel of the photos, but comfort is key when it comes to kids. While you may want to choose outfits that are coordinated or match the color palette, it’s important to ensure that your children feel good in their clothes. Uncomfortable shoes, itchy fabrics, or clothing that is too tight can make kids fidgety, which can show up in photos.

When choosing your family’s outfits, consider the location and time of year too. For outdoor shoots, you’ll want to dress for the weather—layering can be a good option for cooler weather, while breathable fabrics work well for warm days. Let your kids have a voice in choosing their clothes too! This can make them feel more involved and reduce the chances of them refusing to wear something they don’t like.

Prepare for the Unexpected

No matter how much preparation you do, it’s always a good idea to be flexible during the photo session. Kids may have moments when they get distracted, tired, or simply refuse to cooperate—and that’s okay!! Prepare yourself for some unpredictability and try to stay calm and positive. Kids are very perceptive, and if they sense any frustration, it can create tension that affects the photos.

Instead of focusing on perfection, embrace the moments of spontaneity and fun that may happen during the session. Often, the best photos come from natural, unscripted interactions—those candid moments of laughter, play, or connection. Let your photographer work with these moments, as they can genuinely capture your family’s dynamic.

Bring Along Snacks, Water, and Entertainment

Having snacks and drinks on hand can help keep your kids happy and energized throughout the session. Make sure to bring simple, non-messy snacks like crackers, fruit, or granola bars and plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated. If your kids are younger, having a favorite toy or blanket nearby can help them feel more comfortable and secure.

It’s also a good idea to have a few distractions ready for any downtime or if your kids start to lose interest. A favorite book or a small toy can provide a quick diversion and help reset their attention when needed.

Have Fun and Be Present

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your kids for a family photo session is to approach the experience with a positive attitude and a sense of fun. There’s no need to be worried about getting the “perfect shot”—focus on enjoying the time together, being present in the moment, and showing your kids that the session is a chance to have fun.

Let your photographer guide the session and keep an open mind! Sometimes the best photos come from playing a game, telling silly jokes, or just running around and enjoying each other’s company.

In Conclusion

Preparing your kids for a family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, communication, and a positive attitude, you can set the stage for a fun and memorable experience that results in beautiful family photos you can proudly display in your home. 


Are you ready to book your fun family photo sesh? Here’s what to do next: 

  1. Visit my Family & Portraits page to learn all about the packages I offer
  2. See if you connect with my style on the Family & Portraits portfolio page
  3. Head to my contact page and reach out (or book your spot using my scheduler) to get your family photo session on the books! 
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