It’s no secret that family photo shoots can be a stressful experience; however, not all photo shoots have to be this way; instead, they can be a joyful and memorable day for everyone involved! Not only will the event itself offer you priceless photographs that you will remember for the rest of your lives, but it will also provide you and your family an opportunity to let loose and have a great time together. So, here are my top recommendations for a STRESS-FREE family photoshoot!

Plan Ahead

Arrange for your photoshoot to take place at a time that is convenient for all parties involved. Ensure that everyone’s schedules are clear so that you have plenty of time before and after your photoshoot. If you rush to your photoshoot or the photographer, you won’t get the best images. Layout the outfit and props the night before the session. Arrange your family’s wardrobe ahead of time, taking your time to organize, iron, and get everyone dressed. This will make transitioning from any activity to getting dressed much easier, as well as ensuring that everyone’s clothes fit properly and that their colors coordinate. 

Have you chosen a park or another outside setting for your location? Choose a location that will be enjoyable for you and your family, and that may include activities such as games or goodies for the kids. Consider how you would dress to visit these locations. When you’re out having fun, no one wants to worry about their nice shoes or clothes getting messy!

Have a Backup Plan

Consider packing extra clothing or two if you have a messy preschooler or a baby who spits up or drools a lot. It’s also a good idea to have a small sewing kit with extra buttons, a needle and thread, and safety pins with you. Little surprises! It always works for little ones. You can have it as your backup plan if the kids get tantrums.  It will also a great way to capture images that makes them naturally happy. Planning for a backup location is also a good idea in the event of inclement weather.

Eat Before the Photo Shoot

Before your photo shoot, try to obtain a good night’s sleep. Set a bedtime for everyone and make an effort to stick to it. Even if a family meal is planned for after the shoot, please ensure that everyone is properly fed beforehand, and feel free to bring snacks and drinks. A mid-photo shoot snack is frequently enjoyed by both kids and parents.

Don’t Quest for Perfection

A part of what we aim for is having a fun time! Relax, take a deep breath, and maintain eye contact with the camera! Relax and let go of your misconceptions about “perfect” photographs. Enjoy, have fun with your family, and allow the photographer (me) to capture your family as it is. Go with it if your toddler wants to splash in a puddle while you’re outside. That’s excellent if Dad wants to go make a cup of coffee while the shoot is going on and the little one needs a snack. The more you allow your family to “be” and accept their imperfections, the more genuine the outcome will be.

Don’t be shy about expressing your love for your partner or children. Touch and interact with others at all times. Many families want to obtain the perfect photo, but that beautiful shot of all smiles may not be your favorite photo in the future!

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Try to go with the flow and maintain a light-hearted attitude about the photoshoot if something goes wrong or simply doesn’t go as planned. Set a good example for the rest of your family, and they might just decide to enjoy the rest of your photo session no matter what.

So, keep in mind… most importantly, have fun!

During your photoshoot, try to relax and have fun with your family. Genuine smiles in candid photographs are better than forced grins in capturing your family’s individuality. Don’t sweat the small stuff; instead, enjoy being with your children and capturing memories!

Last Words

Even if you have thoughts of your children dressed in their Sunday best, the most essential thing is that they are comfortable. You and your children will get fussy and less inclined to smile for photos if you’re wearing extremely warm or uncomfortable clothing. Capturing memorable and authentic moments begins with creating them, so preparing for a stress-free and enjoyable family photo shoot can help you capture the individuality and beauty that already exists inside your family! 

Your family photoshoot should be enjoyable and memorable, not stressful. We’ll be able to make it happen!

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