How to Prepare Your Kids (and Yourself) for a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot
Family photos. You want them. You know they matter—but you still haven’t booked. You might be thinking: What if my kids don’t behave? What if my partner is in a terrible mood? What bribes will keep everyone happy?
Stop. Take a deep breath—you’re not alone in these thoughts. With a little preparation (and the right mindset), your session can be relaxed, meaningful, and even fun. Let’s walk through a few tips to help you, your kids, and your partner feel ready for a stress-free experience.
Set Realistic Expectations
This one’s for you, Mom. Chances are you booked this session because you wanted photos of your whole family with you in them, not just snapshots taken on an iPhone.
Now think about it—does your family normally stand close together, smiling at the camera in perfect unison? Probably not. So why would you want photos of your family that are stiff and uncomfortable?
Your family doesn’t need to look, or be, perfect. Kids will run, giggle, make silly faces, or maybe even have a meltdown. And that’s okay.
The most beautiful photos come from the real moments:
Kids racing up the path.
Parents being tackled by little arms in a giant hug.
Everyone laughing at the dinosaur noises your little one insists on making.
A quiet moment between Dad and the baby who needed a snuggle break.
These are the moments worth remembering. Let go of the pressure to be perfect, and embrace your family as they are right now.
Talk to Your Kids […and Partner] Ahead of Time
Don’t surprise your family with a photoshoot! Chances are, not everyone will jump for joy when they hear the news, but preparing them ahead of time can make a big difference.
For little ones:
Show them your favorite family pictures around your home.
Explain that Jess, a photographer, will take photos so you can hang new ones on the wall to enjoy every day.
Frame it as a fun experience: “We’re going to play games, explore, and Jess will take pictures of us having fun together.”
For older kids:
Get them involved! Let them help pick the location or choose their outfit.
Ask them to think about one photo they would like to see captured at the session. *Don’t forget to loop Jess in on this!
When kids feel included in the process, they’re more invested.
For partners:
Honesty helps. Share your why for wanting the photos—whether it’s capturing this fleeting stage, updating your gallery wall, or creating a keepsake album. Even the most reluctant partners usually soften when they understand the heart behind it.
Plan for Comfort
Rest and food. Hangry kids (or adults!) don’t make for happy photos. Aim for full tummies and solid naps beforehand.
Dress smart. Outfits should be comfortable, weather-appropriate, and confidence-boosting. Layers are great for adjusting to Rochester’s ever-fluctuating weather!
Pack a Session Bag. Water, no-mess snacks, wipes, and a backup outfit for the littlest ones. You probably won’t need it all, but you’ll be glad you brought it if you do.
Relax & Let Go
Parents, this one’s on you: relax. If you’re stressed, your kids will pick up on it. If you’re having fun, they will too.
A few more tips for Mom & Dad…
Focus on connection—play, laugh, dance, snuggle. Lean into the games, the silliness, and the love.
Let me lead. Too many instructions can overwhelm little ones, so trust me to guide the session.
Please skip the “say cheeeeese.” Genuine smiles and laughter always win.
Your more important tip: Be present with your family. I’ll take care of the rest.
Celebrate the Experience
Make family photos part of a fun tradition. Maybe it’s dinner out, or staying up late and watching the sunset. Pairing it with something unique helps kids remember the experience as special and makes them excited for next time.
Embrace the Chaos of Now
This is your season. It might be loud, messy, and a little chaotic—but that’s what makes it beautiful. Tomorrow your kids will be a little older, a little taller, a little wiser. These photos freeze the magic of right now so you can relive the laughter and love for years to come.
Your family’s story is worth remembering. Let’s capture it together. Reach out to book your family’s session.