Family Photoshoot Guide: What Really Happens During Your Session

You did it! Your family photoshoot is officially booked and on the calendar. Now what? What comes next? What should you expect when you show up for your session?

Preparing for Your Session

Now that you’ve cleared the biggest hurdle of scheduling your family photos, it’s time to make sure everyone feels ready by shoot day.

Communicate early. Let your family know when and where your session will take place. Kids (and partners!) often do better when they have time to warm up to the idea. For more tips on helping everyone get into the right mindset, check out my post on How to Prepare Your Kids (and Yourself) for a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot.

Plan your outfits. Whether you’re using pieces you already own, or purchasing something new, a little thought goes a long way. I recommend starting with one outfit or accessory that you love, then pull colors or patterns from that piece to build coordinating looks for the rest of the family. For a step-by-step guide, head to my post on What to Wear for Your Photoshoot.

What Happens at My Session?

Your session with Jess Palmer Photography will be a mix of gentle posing, playful prompts, and fun games. My goal is to capture your family’s natural connection through the way you interact with each other in those guided moments.

We’ll photograph your whole crew together and also capture smaller combinations—parents with kids, siblings, and even individual portraits. These breaks give little ones (…and partners!) a chance to rest and regroup when needed.

Your Most Important Task…

Relax and have fun. Truly. Your photoshoot is a rare chance to enjoy some uninterrupted time with your family.

We’re not aiming for perfection—we’re aiming for everyone to feel comfortable and confident. When everyone is free to be themselves and enjoying the moment, that is when you make the memories you will want to look back on.

Have questions about your own upcoming session? I’d love to chat—send me a message anytime!