How Often Should You Schedule Family Photos?
Time flies, and photographs are your time machine.
They help us return to moments long gone and share our stories forever. Photos allow our children to “meet” family they never had the chance to know, and let us watch them grow and change from year to year.
Family photos matter.
As a mom of two, a business owner, and a softball coach, I know making time for family photos can be hard. There are appointments, sports practices, holidays, trips, camps—and all the day-to-day things to juggle. I get it.
But we also know family photos are important, so let’s take a look at how often you really need them—and why consistency matters when it comes to scheduling.
How often do I need family photos?
For many families, once a year is the sweet spot. It gives you the chance to see just how much your kids have grown and changed.
Every year for my daughters' birthdays, I make them an album from the past year. I'm always amazed at how different they looked at the beginning of the year compared to now.
Other perks of once-a-year photos:
You can schedule them around the same time each year, so you don’t forget
It becomes a fun family tradition
You’ll always have updated photos for your home or gifts
Consistency makes it easier every year for kids (…and partners!)
Twice a Year? That Works Too!
Another great option is twice a year, often during different seasons like fall and spring. This gives your family the chance to plan for two different styles—maybe a more formal, holiday-themed session in the fall, and a laid-back, casual one in the spring.
This schedule is especially great for families with younger children who seem to change overnight!
What About Every Other Year?
If your kids are older or your schedule is packed, every other year might work best for you.
Want to stay connected in the off-years? A short mini session is a perfect option for a quick update—ideal for holiday cards or thoughtful photo gifts. At Jess Palmer Photography, we hold one outdoor mini session weekend mid-fall and one studio mini session weekend late fall. Make sure you are on our email list to get early access to booking!
It's Never Too Late to Start
Whether it’s been a few months or a few years, it’s never too late to start a new tradition with your family.
In-Between Sessions for Life’s Special Moments
Even families who do regular annual photos will have special times in life that deserve their own spotlight.
Some common milestones for special sessions:
Pregnancy: Schedule these in your third trimester, 29-36 weeks.
New baby: Ideally, schedule these within baby's first 10 days after birth.
Graduations (Pre-K, Kindergarten, Senior Portraits): These can be scheduled early so that you can use the photos for announcements or party invites.
Engagements: Schedule these ahead of making your Save the Dates or website so that you have some awesome photos to use!
Tips to Make Family Photos Easy & Fun
Family photos don't have to be a headache.
Here are some things that can help:
Choose a photographer who makes your family feel comfortable
Stick with them year after year—the experience gets easier every time
Focus on connection over perfection—real moments matter most
Remember, family photos with Jess Palmer Photography are about capturing your real life—sometimes chaotic, always beautiful.
Embrace the chaos. Enjoy your family. And let me capture the beautiful memories.