As a family photographer on the Central Coast of Australia, I’ve seen it all: toddlers refusing to smile, parents stressing about outfits, and the occasional meltdown (and not just from the kids!). One of my favorite memories is of a dad who, halfway through a session, broke into a goofy dance routine to make his shy daughter giggle. Not only did it work like magic, but the unplanned moment became the highlight of their photo album.

The truth is, family photography doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can be a ton of fun! Here are eight tried-and-true tips to make your session with me relaxed, joyful, and memorable.

1. Relax, Perfection Isn’t the Goal

The best photos aren’t the ones where everyone is stiffly posed, grinning on command. They’re the moments when your family’s unique quirks and connections shine through. Kids being kids, parents laughing at the chaos—these are the images that will make your heart swell for years to come. So let go of perfection and embrace the playful unpredictability of the session.

2. Choose Comfort Over Coordination

Coordinated outfits can look great, but they shouldn’t come at the expense of your family’s comfort. Choose clothing that allows everyone to move freely and feel at ease. Soft, neutral tones work beautifully, but don’t shy away from adding a pop of personality through accessories or favorite pieces. The key is for everyone to feel good—because relaxed families look amazing in photos.

3. Pack the Essentials

Bring a bag with a few essentials to make the session smoother: snacks, water, and a favorite toy or blanket for younger kids. These little things can be lifesavers during breaks or if your child needs a quick pick-me-up. Oh, and don’t forget wipes or tissues for unexpected spills or sticky fingers!

4. Trust the Process

Some parents feel pressure to “manage” their kids during the session, but that’s my job! I’ll guide your family naturally, helping you relax and enjoy the experience. Kids can be unpredictable, but those unplanned moments often result in the most authentic and endearing shots. So take a breath, let me handle the flow, and just focus on enjoying time with your family.

5. Bring the Fun

Think of your session as a family outing rather than a photoshoot. Bring along items that encourage playfulness, like a favorite game, bubbles, or a cherished book. Whether it’s a tickle fight, a piggyback ride, or a silly dance-off, these moments create genuine joy that shines through in the photos.

6. Prepare Your Kids with Positivity

Before the session, talk to your kids about what to expect. Explain that it’s a fun time to play together and take some pictures—no need for pressure or perfection. Frame it as an adventure! If they know it’s a special family day, they’re more likely to approach it with excitement and curiosity.

7. Time It Right

Choose a time of day when your family is at their best. For younger children, sessions after naps or meals tend to work well. Golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) provides stunning natural light, but ultimately, what works for your family’s schedule is most important. Rested and happy kids (and parents!) make for a smoother session.

8. Make It a Celebration

Turn the day into a mini celebration! Plan a fun family activity before or after the shoot, like a picnic, ice cream outing, or a trip to the park. Knowing there’s a special treat coming can keep kids motivated and excited, and it makes the day feel extra meaningful for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Your family photo session is about capturing the real, beautiful, messy magic of your lives together. By focusing on connection over perfection and embracing the playful spirit of the day, you’ll not only end up with stunning photos but also a wonderful memory of time spent together.

So, when you’re ready to book your next session, remember: show up, be yourselves, and let me take care of the rest. And who knows? You might just walk away with a new family anecdote to laugh about for years to come!