Behind the Scenes: What a Family Photo Session with Me Really Looks Like

When people book a family session with me, most of them picture the same thing: everyone lined up, smiling stiffly at the camera, while I count to three. If that’s what you’re imagining — I have good news. That’s not how I work at all.

Here’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what a family photo session with Pearl Photography & Co. really looks like, from the first hello to the last frame.

Before We Even Meet

The session starts before the session, if that makes sense. Once you book, we’ll chat about the important stuff: where to shoot, what time of day works best for your kids, and what kind of feel you’re dreaming of — playful and candid, soft and dreamy, or a little of both.

I’ll suggest locations around Edmonton that fit your vision (I have my favourites, and I’m always scouting new ones). We’ll also talk outfits — not in a stressful, matchy-matchy way, but so everyone looks like themselves on their best day.

By the time we meet, you’ll know exactly where to go, what to bring, and what to expect. No surprises, no guessing.

The First Ten Minutes: Zero Pressure

Here’s a secret: I don’t start by taking photos. When we first arrive, I say hi, let the kids check me out, and give everyone a few minutes to settle in. If your toddler wants to show me a stick they found, I’m looking at the stick. If your teen is giving me the “this is so lame” face, I give them space — they’ll come around.

Those first minutes aren’t wasted. They’re how trust gets built, and trust is what makes the rest of the session work. Kids who feel comfortable in front of my camera give me the real stuff — and the real stuff is what you’re going to treasure.

How I “Pose” You (Without the Stiffness)

I don’t really do traditional posing, especially with families. Instead, I use prompts and little games that get you interacting with each other instead of staring at my lens.

Things like: “Everyone whisper your silliest secret into Mom’s ear.” “Okay, race to that tree — go!” “Dad, swing her around like you did when she was little.” While you’re laughing, playing, and being yourselves, I’m quietly working — finding the light, watching the background, and capturing it all.

For the few classic portraits grandparents will want (yes, I always get those too), I’ll gently guide you into position: chin slightly down, shoulders relaxed, snuggle in close. It takes about thirty seconds, and then we’re back to playing.

The In-Between Moments Are the Whole Point

Some of my favourite images from any session are the ones nobody planned. The way your daughter tucks her hair behind her ear. Your son’s full-belly laugh when Dad says something ridiculous. The quiet second where you look at your partner and just… smile.

I’m always watching for those moments. My camera barely leaves my face during a session because I never want to miss one. A lot of families tell me afterwards that they don’t even remember me taking half the photos — and honestly, that’s the best compliment I could get.

When Things Go Sideways (They Sometimes Do)

Let’s be real: kids are kids. Someone might cry. Someone might decide they’d rather eat dirt than look at the camera. A session I did last fall included a full toddler meltdown — and we still ended up with a gallery the family absolutely loves.

When it happens, I don’t panic, and I don’t want you to either. We take a break. We have a snack (I always tell parents to bring them — goldfish crackers have saved more sessions than I can count). Sometimes the best photos come right after the tears, when a little one curls into Mom’s arms and everything goes soft and quiet.

And if the weather turns on us? Edmonton keeps me on my toes. I always have a backup plan, and I’m quick to pivot — some of my most dramatic, gorgeous sessions happened under moody skies.

What I Bring (Besides My Camera)

Besides my gear, my bag always has: a cozy neutral blanket (great for seated shots and impromptu picnics), a few simple props for little ones, and endless patience. What I don’t bring is a rigid shot list or a stopwatch. Most family sessions run about 30–45 minutes — long enough to get variety, short enough that nobody’s fun runs out.

And Then… the Good Part

When we’re done, the kids usually ask if they can come back tomorrow (true story, more than once). You’ll head home, and I’ll head home to back up your images and start the culling and editing process — which you can read all about in my post on what happens after your session.

So that’s the real behind-the-scenes: less posing, more playing. Less “say cheese,” more genuine laughter. If that sounds like your kind of session, I’d love to meet your family.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your session — I can’t wait to capture your beautiful chaos.