How to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot (Without the Stress)
Family photoshoots don’t need to feel overwhelming but I get why they would ( I have two very energetic boys so I've seen it all)
The best family photos don’t come from perfect behaviour They come from everyone feeling relaxed enough to be themselves- those are the photos I love
Here’s how to prepare in a way that actually helps — and what you can safely stop worrying about.
1. Don’t Aim for “Perfect”
This is the biggest mistake parents make.
Children don’t need to sit still.
They don’t need to smile on cue.
They don’t need to behave like tiny adults.
A good family photoshoot allows space for personality, and real interaction. Some of the most meaningful images happen between moments — not when everyone is lined up and smiling.
If you go in expecting perfection, you’ll feel stressed.
If you go in expecting real life, you’ll enjoy it!
2. What to Wear (Keep It Simple)
Outfits matter — but not in the way Instagram makes you think.
Best rule:
Neutral or soft tones
Simple patterns
Comfortable clothes you can move in
Avoid:
Big logos or characters
Very bright neons
You don’t need to match — you just need to coordinate.
Think of outfits that sit well together rather than compete for attention.
If you’re comfortable, it shows in the photos.
3. Timing Is Everything (Especially for Young Children)
Choose a time of day when your children are usually at their best
That usually means:
After naps
After snacks
Not rushed between activities
A relaxed session always beats a forced one. If i was tired and hungry i wouldn't feel like sitting in front of a camera and being mad to smile either!
4. Give your kids a heads up
Let them know what’s happening, but keep it light
Simple works best:
“We’re going to take some photos together and have a bit of fun.”
Bring their favourite toys so they can relax beforehand
Avoid:
Promising rewards for smiling (although bribing my pair with dinosaurs usually works)
Turning it into a performance
When children feel pressure, they withdraw. When they feel safe, they open up.
5. Trust the Process (and the Photographer)
A good family photographer will:
Guide gently when needed
Adapt if things go off-plan
Let moments unfold naturally
There’s no need to correct, or apologise for your children being themselves.
There’s no such thing as “ruining” a session by being human.
6. Let Go of the Outcome
If you’re constantly thinking:
“Are they smiling enough?”
“Is this working?”
“I hope this turns out okay”
they are misbehaving
…you’ll miss the experience.
The photos are important — but the way the session feels is what creates natural, meaningful images.
Relaxed parents = relaxed children = better photos.
Final Thought
There is no such thing as a “perfect” family photoshoot, believe me I've tried, but the ones that will forever be my favourites are them being their wild selves as their personalities shine though and they are the ones that hang proudly on my walls
There is only your family, as they are right now — and that’s exactly what makes the photos worth having.
If you’d like a relaxed family photoshoot that focuses on connection rather than perfection, I’d love to chat about what you have in mind.
