Family Photo Session Prep Tips

How to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot: 6 Stress-Saving Tips from a Pro Photographer

If you’ve ever felt like family photo day turns your calm, collected household into a circus on caffeine—you’re not alone.

I’ve been a family photographer for over a decade, and I’ve seen it all: toddlers running in three directions, hair that won’t cooperate, snacks melting in the car, and partners who suddenly remember urgent yard work. But here’s the thing - family photos don’t have to feel like chaos.

With just a little planning and the right mindset, you can show up feeling relaxed, confident, and ready to actually enjoy the experience. Below are my favorite tried-and-true session prep tips to help you go from frazzled to focused on photo day.

1. Let Your Partner in on the Why

The first step in preparing for a family photoshoot starts long before you get dressed: talk to your partner.

Let him (or her!) know why these photos matter to you. Maybe it’s because you want to preserve your family’s story, create something lasting for your kids, or simply freeze this season before it slips away. When your partner understands that it’s not just “another photo session,” they’re much more likely to show up in good spirits, and that energy makes a huge difference.

And trust me, when your family feels connected to the purpose, the smiles come naturally.

2. Get the Kids Excited (Not Anxious)

If your kids dread photo day, it’s probably because they’ve heard “smile!” one too many times. Instead, make it sound like an adventure.

Talk about where you’ll be going, what you’ll do, and how fun it will be to play together while someone takes pictures. The goal isn’t perfect posing, it’s connection.

You can even let them bring a small comfort item, like a lovey or stuffed animal, if you want it in a few photos. If not, leave it at home so it doesn’t steal the spotlight.

(Pro tip: avoid over-prepping them. Kids sense pressure. Keep it light and positive.)

3. Prep Your Outfits the Day Before

There’s nothing worse than realizing someone’s shirt is wrinkled or a sock is missing as you’re trying to head out the door.

Take a few minutes the day before your photoshoot to lay out everyone’s outfits. Steam or iron anything that needs it, and check for stains, tags, or wardrobe malfunctions waiting to happen.

If you’re working with me (or any full-service photographer), this is also a great time to review your wardrobe guide and confirm your color palette fits the location and light. A little prep now means no stress later, and it helps you walk into the session feeling put-together and confident.

4. Pack the “Session Survival Bag”

Think of this as your secret weapon for a smooth photoshoot. Pack a small bag the morning of your session with:

• Water bottles for everyone

• Baby wipes or tissues

• Non-messy snacks like Cheerios, puffs, or yogurt drops

• A few small treats (Smarties or mini marshmallows work wonders)

You may not need everything, but knowing it’s there gives you peace of mind. And peace of mind photographs beautifully.

5. Give Yourself Extra Time (and Then Some)

Rushing is the fastest way to ruin a good mood. Give yourself extra time to get ready, and then pad your travel time, too. Even arriving ten minutes early can shift the entire tone of your session.

Instead of feeling flustered, you’ll have a moment to breathe, fix flyaways, and simply enjoy your family.

And here’s a bonus: kids pick up on your energy. If you’re calm, they’ll mirror that.

6. Take a Deep Breath and Trust Your Photographer

Once you arrive—exhale. The hard part is over.

You’ve done the prep, wrangled the outfits, packed the snacks, and gotten everyone out the door. Now it’s my turn. Your only job? Love on your family.

A good family photographer knows how to handle wild toddlers, camera-shy partners, and every “Are we done yet?” in between. We’ll play games, tell jokes, and let moments unfold naturally so your photos actually feel like you.

Remember: the best family photos aren’t about perfection, they’re about presence.

Final Thoughts: From Frazzled to Focused

When it comes to how to prepare for a family photoshoot, these small steps make all the difference. You don’t need to aim for flawless; you just need to show up and be yourselves.

Your future self will thank you when you’re flipping through your album, realizing that these images captured not just faces, but feelings.

If you want more behind-the-scenes advice, styling ideas, and exclusive session tips, make sure you’re on my email list. That’s where I share the good stuff - real talk, helpful guides, and first dibs on seasonal sessions.