Five Quick Tips for Parents from a Photographer in Jacksonville, FL

As a photographer in Jacksonville, FL, I’ve seen it all - meltdowns in the car, snack bribes gone wrong, and parents whisper-yelling behind the camera (yep, I see you!). But after more than a decade photographing families, I’ve learned this: the most beautiful, genuine photos happen when everyone is relaxed and connected.

Family sessions shouldn’t feel like a chore - they should feel fun. So if you’re gearing up for family photos this season, here are my five best tips for Family Photo Day for parents to make the experience smoother, happier, and more meaningful.

1. Don’t yell at your kids - trust me on this one.

It happens all the time: parents feel the pressure to get everyone to behave and start correcting every move the kids make. But here’s the truth: nothing kills the vibe faster than yelling during your session. Not only have I seen it in my client sessions, but I have also been that parent during my own family photos. And I know better!

I get it. You want things to go smoothly, and the stress can creep up. But when kids feel tension, it shows in their faces, and can even make them cry. Instead, let me take the lead. I’ve spent twelve years working with wild toddlers, shy preschoolers, and eye-rolling teens - I know exactly how to get natural smiles without you needing to say a word. Your only job? Breathe, and let the chaos be part of the magic. If you really need to intervene, do it in a helpful way, not a negative one. Bring up a silly song, or memory or yell “SIX SEVEN” to get your kids attention 🤣

2. Engage with your family, not just the camera.

One of the biggest misconceptions about family photography is that everyone needs to stare straight into the lens, smiling perfectly in sync. But the best images - the ones that make you tear up later - are about connection, not perfection.

When I’m posing your family, talk to your kids. Whisper something funny to your partner. Make silly faces, tickle a shoulder, or share a quick inside joke. The more natural your interactions, the more you your photos will feel. That’s what transforms a nice picture into a GREAT picture.

3. Take a deep breath (or two).

There’s a moment in every session where things feel a little wild: a toddler runs off, hair gets in someone’s face, or a shirt suddenly looks wrinkled. Take a breath. Then take another.

I promise, it’s all going to be okay. In fact, it’s those small, imperfect moments that often lead to the most authentic photos. I’ll guide you through poses, fix the details, and help everyone feel calm again. My goal is to make sure your session feels effortless - like a family adventure, not a performance.

4. Plan something fun for after your session.

This is one of my favorite pieces of advice because it completely changes how families show up.

Schedule something fun for after your session - go out for ice cream, grab pizza, or head home for a cozy movie night. Giving your kids (and yourself!) something to look forward to keeps everyone’s spirits high and helps the whole day feel like a celebration.

You’ve just invested time and love into creating family memories. This is an easy way to make the rest of the day feel special, too.

5. Pat yourself on the back - you did it.

Let’s take a second to recognize the real MVP here: you.

You found the right photographer, picked a date, coordinated outfits, and somehow managed to get everyone out the door in one piece. That’s no small feat. You’ve already done the hard part, now it’s time to enjoy the reward.

Once you have your photos you can pour a glass of wine, relive those moments, and feel proud of the family you’ve built. Because these aren’t just photos - they’re proof of your love, your effort, and your legacy.

Family photos are about connection, not perfection. When you let go of the pressure and focus on being present, everything changes. The laughter becomes real, the smiles are effortless, and the final gallery tells a story that feels like home.

If you found these tips helpful, I share more family photo insights, prep advice, and behind-the-scenes stories in my newsletter. It’s where I send all my best resources, updates, and sometimes a few laughs.

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