Let’s be real for a second…


Getting the whole family excited about a photo shoot can feel a little like trying to herd cats, while someone is hungry, someone lost a shoe, and someone (usually Dad!) is wondering why we can’t just “take one quick picture and be done.” Whether you’re heading out to a field of sunflowers, planning a classic holiday session, or simply realizing it’s been WAY too long since your last family photo, it’s totally normal to feel a little stressed going into it. But here’s the good news: Family photos don’t have to feel like a chore. In fact, I don’t think they should. Some of my favorite photos happen when families stop worrying about getting the “perfect picture” and start having fun together. A little movement, a little silliness, some snuggles, maybe a kid who decides they’re absolutely NOT smiling today… that’s family life. And that’s the good stuff.


So, in honor of sunflower season and all the beautiful, slightly chaotic families I get to photograph, here are 4 easy ways to make your next family photo shoot more fun, for everyone.


1. Pick outfits that make everyone feel good

Matching outfits can work… but they can also turn into a full-blown family debate. Instead of putting everyone in the exact same thing, choose a color palette and let each person have a little freedom. For sunflower sessions, think about colors that look beautiful against all that yellow and green like creams, denim, soft blues, earthy tones, rust, warm neutrals, or even little pops of deeper colors. The goal is to coordinate, not clone.

Choose clothes that:

  • Feel comfortable and let everyone move
  • Work together without being identical
  • Add a little texture, layering, or personality
  • Actually feel like the person wearing them

Because when people feel good, it shows. And if your kid has a favorite pair of boots they refuse to take off? Honestly, we might just roll with it. Those little details are part of who they are right now.


2. Choose a location where you can actually HAVE FUN

The right location can be magic, not just because of the lighting or the pretty background, but because of how it makes everyone feel. That’s one of the reasons I love photographing families in places like sunflower fields. There’s room to move. Kids can explore. Families can walk together, cuddle, laugh, look at the flowers and interact instead of standing in one spot worrying about where to put their hands. Yes, I’ll get the everyone-looking-at-the-camera photo. But then I want you to do something. Walk together. Tickle your kid. Pick them up. Snuggle. Tell a terrible joke. Whisper something ridiculous in someone’s ear. Those are often the moments that create my favorite photographs. The goal isn’t stiff and perfect. The goal is connection.


3. Bring something fun

Props don’t have to be fancy or Pinterest-perfect. They just need to give you something to do.

Depending on the location and session, that might be:

  • A cozy blanket
  • Bubbles
  • A favorite stuffed animal
  • A little basket
  • A kite or pinwheel
  • A special family item
  • And yes… snacks absolutely count

For sunflower sessions, sometimes the field itself is all the “prop” we need. There are flowers to look at, fun treasures hidden in the yellowness, paths to wander down and plenty of room for little ones to explore. Giving kids something to do takes the pressure off the dreaded: “Okay! Everybody smile!” Because you know what happens when you tell a four-year-old to smile. You get that smile. Parents know exactly which one I’m talking about. Instead, I’d much rather get them laughing for real.


4. Bring the pets—because they’re family too!

If you’ve got a furry family member and the location allows pets, bring them! Dogs add so much joy and personality to family photos. They give kids something familiar to interact with, create movement, and usually provide at least one completely ridiculous moment during the session. And those are often my favorites. Your family portraits should represent your actual family, and sometimes that family has four legs, a wagging tail and absolutely no respect for personal space. Just make sure to check with me first so we know pets are allowed at our location and can plan accordingly.


BONUS TIP: Stop worrying about your kids “behaving”

This one is really for the parents. You do not need to spend your entire session telling your kids:

“Look at Jackie.”

“Smile.”

“Stand still.”

“Put that down.”

“Come back here.”

“STOP TOUCHING YOUR BROTHER.”


I’ve got them. Kids are kids. They wiggle. They get distracted. They make weird faces. Sometimes they need a minute. That’s okay. My job isn't just to know how to use a camera. It's to create an environment where your family can relax enough for me to capture who you actually are. Sometimes the photo you think we’re not getting is the exact moment I’m photographing.


Sunflower Sessions Are Basically Made for This

This is exactly why I love sunflower sessions. They're bright, colorful and just a little bit magical—but more importantly, they give families a beautiful place to play together. You don't need to show up knowing how to pose. You don't need perfectly behaved children. You don't need to practice smiling. And Dad does not need to know what to do with his hands. I promise. Just show up as yourselves. We'll walk through the flowers, play, laugh, snuggle, be a little ridiculous and, somewhere in the middle of all of that, we'll make some beautiful photographs. Because years from now, I don't just want you to remember what everyone looked like. I want you to look at that portrait hanging on your wall and remember what this season of your family felt like. That's the whole point. If you want to come play with me in the sunflowers book a Sunflower Session with me by clicking here!