How to Prepare Your Kids for a Family Photo Session

If there’s one thing I hear from parents before a family session, it’s this: “My kids will NOT sit still for photos.” And you know what? That’s completely okay. I’ve photographed plenty of wiggly toddlers, shy preschoolers, and too-cool-for-this teenagers — and we’ve always come away with beautiful images. But a little preparation goes a long way toward making the experience enjoyable for everyone (including you).

Here are my best tips for getting your kids ready for a family photo session.

Talk About It Ahead of Time

Kids do better when they know what’s coming. A day or two before the session, tell them in simple, positive terms what’s going to happen: “We’re going to meet Branae at the park, and she’s going to take some pictures of our family. We’ll play some games and have fun.”

Keep it light and upbeat. The more it sounds like an adventure and less like a chore, the better.

Don’t Skip Naps or Meals

This is the single biggest factor in how a session goes. A tired, hungry child is going to have a hard time — and honestly, who can blame them? I know this from experience as a mom myself.

Schedule your session around your child’s best time of day. For most little ones, that’s morning or right after an afternoon nap. Feed everyone a good snack before we meet (and bring backup snacks).

Let Them Be Themselves

Here’s something I want every parent to hear: your kids don’t need to be perfect during our session. They don’t need to sit still, smile on command, or behave like tiny adults. Some of my favourite images are the in-between moments — the giggles, the curious looks, the way your toddler melts into your arms.

I build play into my sessions. We’ll do silly walks, I’ll ask them to whisper secrets to you, we’ll race to a tree. When kids are having fun, the genuine expressions come naturally.

Bring the Essentials

A little preparation in your bag can save the day: snacks and water (non-messy ones), a favourite comfort item, a change of clothes, and wipes for sticky hands and runny noses.

Dress Them in Something Comfortable

Comfort matters more than anything. If your daughter hates the itchy dress or your son refuses to keep the bow tie on, it’s going to show in every photo. Let them have some say in their outfit. When kids feel good in what they’re wearing, they’re more relaxed.

Manage Your Own Expectations

I say this with love: try to let go of the picture in your head of everyone looking at the camera and smiling perfectly. Those shots are lovely when they happen, but the images you’ll treasure most in ten years are the ones that show your family’s real personality.

If things get chaotic, that’s okay. I’ve seen it all, and I promise I’m not judging. My job is to find the beautiful moments in the beautiful mess.