FAMILY PHOTOS CAN BE INTIMIDATING

And as a parent, you want it go well.

Read on for some practical tips you can implement with your kids before your photo session to set it up for success!

TIP ONE-

TELL YOUR CHILD ABOUT YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER AND THEIR ROLE.

“The photographer is super nice and friendly! They’re just like a new friend who’s going to help us take some really special photos.”

“If you feel like dancing or making silly faces, the photographer will be happy to capture that too. They want to capture YOU being YOU.”

Tell your kids that it’s also important to listen to the photographer when they’re giving instructions, as it helps create beautiful pictures.

TIP TWO-

EXPLAIN THE ACTIVITIES YOU’LL DO

“You might get to give your family big hugs, or even play a little game of tag. You can jump, skip, or roll around on the grass—anything that makes you happy!”

“Sometimes we’ll take calm photos where we sit and smile, and other times we’ll do silly things like jumping or playing. There’s a mix of both so it’s not boring!”

By explaining the activities this way, kids will feel more comfortable and excited about the session. They’ll know that it’s not all about being stiff and serious but about having fun and making memories.

TIP THREE-

LET THEM HELP TO PICK THEIR OUTFIT

Letting your child pick between two/three options you’ve chosen is a great way to make sure outfits still coordinate, but you’re giving your child some say.

If they’re not comfortable in something, this might lead to less cooperation during the session.

TIP FOUR-

LET THEM KNOW HOW SPECIAL THEIR SMILE IS

Practicing smiles in the mirror and telling them how much you love their smile will help their confidence grow when it comes to taking photos.

TIP FIVE-

BRIBERY 😂

You’ll get no judgement from me!!!

Promise a fun activity after the session, like going to a park or grabbing ice cream—this can motivate younger kids to stay engaged.

By framing the session as a fun, low-pressure experience and setting clear expectations, you can help ease any nerves and create a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.

Ultimately, not everything will go to plan, and that’s okay!

Family photos are supposed to capture the chaos that is parenthood, along with the sweet and happy moments.

These imperfect memories are the ones you’ll look back on with a laugh one day.