I have been photographing families for over 10 years and I have plenty of tips on how How to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot! First, I can tell you that a little preparation helps everyone arrive ready to enjoy their session. I always tell parents to start with the basics: rested kids, full bellies, comfortable outfits, and enough time to get out the door.
Thinking about your own family photoshoot with me? You can browse my Richmond family photos to see how much room there is for play, movement, and snuggling. Everyone doesn’t need to stand still and smile the entire time!
Here are my best times for an amazing family photography session~
1. Plan Around Rest and Nap Times
Let me know about your children’s usual nap times when we schedule your session. Keep their routine as familiar as possible that day, and give everyone a chance to rest beforehand.
2. Eat Before Your Session and Pack Snacks
Hungry kids and hungry parents have a harder time enjoying photos! Have a meal or snack before leaving, and bring water and a few easy snacks. Choose something that won’t stain mouths or clothing.
3. Get Everyone’s Outfits Ready Ahead of Time
Try everything on before session day, including shoes. Make sure your children can walk, sit, and play comfortably. Set your outfits aside together so you’re not searching for a missing shoe right before leaving.
4. Tell Me Which Photos Matter to You
If you want a particular photo with grandparents, individual pictures of each child, or portraits of just you and your partner, tell me beforehand. We can plan for those combinations without working through a list during your session.
5. Help Your Kids Look Forward to the Photoshoot
Tell your kids we’re going to take pictures and have some fun together. Bring a favorite toy if it helps them feel comfortable. There’s no need to make the day depend on earning a reward for smiling.
6. Let Me Guide Your Children
You don’t have to keep telling your children where to stand, how to pose, or when to smile. I’ll give your family direction and adjust as we go. If someone needs a snack break or a cuddle, we can give them a minute.
7. Play, Snuggle, and Enjoy Your Family
Hold your partner’s hand, hug your kids, tell a joke, or play together when I suggest it. Those interactions give me something to photograph beyond everyone looking at the camera. You can focus on your family while I handle the photos!
Ready to Book Your Family Photoshoot?
I’d love to help you plan a family session in Richmond or Lawton. Tell me who’s joining us and what you have in mind, and we’ll work through the details together.
Sarah Creal is a family, maternity, newborn, and birth photographer serving Richmond, Virginia and Lawton, Oklahoma. With 10+ years in business and 95 five-star reviews, she is known for relaxed, connected photography and her ability to work with children and families of different needs. Sarah was also an occupational therapist for 25 years and is a member of Professional Photographers of America and the American Occupational Therapy Association.
