How do you make your next family portrait session a stress free, fun adventure?


Family Photographs are truly timeless and they are a great keepsake for future generations. Getting the whole family together to take those perfect portraits can feel daunting and sometimes a session can turn into chaos without some guidance. There is usually a lot more to consider then you might think when it comes to a family portrait session since there are family members of all ages and some family members are covered in hair with four legs. This means that there needs to be some extra coordination to keep the stress level down. Below are some family portrait ideas and tips that can help to keep you and your loved ones calm and smiling from the beginning to end.


  1. Timing is everything. If you have littles and by that I mean kids under 5 years old. You will want to arrange the photography session at a time when they will be well rested. Early in the morning or right after a nap. A rested kiddo makes for a fun session and happy portraits. On that not, make sure that all of your family has gotten enough sleep the night before as this helps with puffy tired eyes. It keeps the energy level uplifted and ensures a relaxed session.
  2. Do's and Don't s of bribery. Get your family excited about your portrait session instead of offering a reward in return for their cooperation. Rewards tend to lead to forced smiles and an irritated bunch of people. If you do have small children coming along it's not a bad idea to give me some bribery options in the form of toys or small food items to make those difficult moments a little easier. I do have some tricks up my sleeve, but you can never have enough resources.
  3. Relinquish Control. As much as you'll want to direct your kids on what to do, where to stand and how to pose it's best to leave that to me. I am professional and I have a lot of experience under by belt. I know what works best and I promise to get everyone's attention by all means necessary. By not taking on the pressure of directing your family, you get to relax and be in the moment with your family.
  4. It's not just about the posing. The best portraits happen when you're having fun and that means being in moment. Play with your kids, hold your partner's hand, dance, jump, cuddle, laugh, tell some dad jokes and let the moments happen. I will be there with my ninja eye capturing all of it.
  5. Let's Plan Ahead. This is what makes the consultation you do with me before your session so important. We need to discuss all of your requirements and expectations before your session so that when we are out with your family the session can flow and unfold perfectly. I want to know all of your specific needs. I want to make sure I capture what's most important to you.
  6. Keep those sugar levels up. If everyone is well fed, the session will run smoother. It's also not a bad idea to bring a few snacks and some water along for those who might need it. I am known for dragging around a wagon, so don't be afraid to pack some stuff to add to my wagon load.
  7. It's all in good fun. Remember that life is unexpected. Things will happen, kids will get dirty, babies will cry, teenagers will goof off and dogs will find something weird in the park grass but having your sense of humor fully intact will save you tons of stress!


I hope these tips keep you from getting voted off the island (get it survivor!) and that they help you understand that doing a family portrait session should be a fun and relaxed experience for your family. One they can look forward to and enjoy every year.