(Practical tips from someone who’s been on both sides of the camera)
If you’re thinking about booking a family portrait session, you might be wondering, “What do we actually need to do to get ready?”
Good news: it’s way less about being perfect and way more about showing up prepared, comfortable, and ready to roll with whatever your family brings to the day.
Here’s my best friend-to-friend advice to help your session feel smoother and more enjoyable from start to finish.
Start with outfits that make sense for real life
A few outfit tips that can save you stress later:
- Cartwheel shorts or bloomers are your friend.
If your daughters are wearing dresses, throw cartwheel shorts underneath. Same goes for bloomers if someone’s still in diapers. Kids move, climb, twirl, and sit. Planning for that makes everyone more relaxed. - Do a test run.
Seriously. Have everyone wear their outfits to the grocery store or out to dinner once. You’ll quickly find out if something is itchy, too tight, or constantly needing adjustment. - Plan for warm weather… then add layers.
Even summer evenings can surprise us. A neutral sweater, jacket, or wrap can save the day if it’s chilly and adds visual interest to photos. - Let kids have a say.
Giving children some agency in what they wear (within reason) goes a long way. When they feel comfortable and heard, it shows in the photos.
Feed everyone (including yourself)
Hangry kids and rushed parents never help.
- Eat before the session.
A full belly makes everything better. - Bring a snack.
Think easy, non-messy options. This is especially helpful if your session runs close to dinner time.
Yes, bring the dog
I know it sounds like adding chaos. And honestly? Sometimes it does.
But years from now, you’ll be so glad your dog was there. We can always do a mix of photos with and without pets, and I promise we’ll keep things moving so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Choose meaningful over flashy
- Sentimental toys and lovies are welcome.
The well-loved stuffed animal or blanket that brings comfort often adds sweetness and authenticity to images. - Skip the “toy of the week.”
If it lights up, makes noise, or demands attention, it usually becomes a distraction rather than a keepsake.
Skip the smile drills
- Please don’t practice smiling all week.
Asking kids to say “cheese” on repeat before the session often leads to forced smiles or total refusal when it actually matters. - Instead, come prepared with stories and jokes.
Inside jokes, silly stories, and genuine compliments are gold. They create real expressions that feel like your family.
Timing matters more than you think
- Avoid new haircuts the same week as photos.
If you’re cutting hair, do it at least a week or two before so it has time to settle. - Hydrate and sleep.
I know this sounds basic, but it makes a difference. You’ll feel better, look fresher, and have more patience for the unexpected. - Stick to your normal routine as much as possible.
Big changes the day of, like skipped naps or pushed bedtimes the night before, tend to show up in moods. Familiar rhythms help kids feel regulated and confident.
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection.
Come with realistic expectations
This might be the most important tip of all.
Your family doesn’t need to be perfectly behaved, coordinated, or calm the entire time. Kids are allowed to be kids. Dogs can be dogs. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection.
Let your kids move, play, and participate. Let moments unfold naturally. And most of all, come ready to have fun.
That’s when the good stuff happens.
If you’re ever unsure about outfits, timing, or what to bring, I’m always happy to help you think it through. You don’t have to figure this out alone.