Here’s the reality when it comes to family photography sessions: in almost every family I work with, there’s one person who planned the session, did all the research, made the booking, and handled every logistical detail. And there’s one person who said “whatever you want, babe” and just shows up.
We already know who is who, right? 😉
If you’re in the planning seat right now and you’re not sure how to get your partner genuinely on board – not just compliant, but actually present – here’s what I’ve learned from working with hundreds of families.
Why dads resist family photo sessions
The resistance usually isn’t about the photos themselves. It’s about not knowing what to expect, feeling like they’ll be awkward, and having a vague sense that the whole thing is going to be uncomfortable and expensive with unclear payoff.
None of those concerns are unreasonable. And none of them are addressed by “it’ll be fine, I promise.”
What actually works is specifics. Tell him what will happen. Tell him it won’t feel like stiff, awkward posing. Tell him I’ve never yet met a dad who didn’t loosen up once he was actually there, laughing with his kids, doing things that feel natural rather than stiff.
The single most important thing
Show him the images. Have him scroll through my website or IG feed. He’ll see dad’s who look like a real people. Kids who are moving, laughing, being chaotic. A couple who looks like they actually like each other.
When men see images that look real rather than staged, the resistance drops significantly. Because what they’re really afraid of is ending up in something that looks fake. Show them proof that it doesn’t have to.
What to tell him about his outfit
Men, bless them, often gravitate toward whatever they’d wear on the golf course or default to a polo. The guidance I give dads is simple: dress like you’re taking your wife on a hot date. Clean, fitted, no logos. A well-fitted pair of chinos and a linen shirt in a neutral tone will photograph beautifully and require zero effort to coordinate with the rest of the family.
Shoes matter more than most people think – they’re often visible in walking shots and full-body images. Clean leather shoes or simple canvas sneakers photograph infinitely better than athletic shoes.
And here’s the best part: when you work with me, you don’t have to figure any of this out on your own. I plan the entire family’s wardrobe – including his – with specific recommendations and links. I know what photographs well on dads, and I’ll take care of it. Consider it the easy button.
What happens during the session
I don’t ask dads – or anyone – to stand still and look at the camera for long stretches. The sessions that produce the best images are the ones where families are moving, talking, doing things together. A piggyback ride. Tossing a kid in the air. Sitting together in the grass while the light goes golden around you.
Dads almost universally feel better once they realize the session doesn’t require them to perform. They just have to show up and be themselves with their family. I handle the rest.
Every reluctant dad I’ve ever photographed has left saying it was better than he expected. Every single one.
Have questions about what a session is actually like? Reach out – I’m happy to send examples, walk through the process, and answer anything your partner wants to know before committing.
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