Family photos are supposed to be something you look back on and love. But getting everyone dressed, out the door, and to the location on time can sometimes feel like a whole event before you even arrive.
And then you’re trying to figure out how everyone is going to feel once you get there.
Maybe the kids are tired. Maybe they’re hungry. Maybe they’re full of energy and running in 14 different directions. Maybe you’re wondering how on earth we’re going to get a single good photo.
The good news? Your family doesn’t have to arrive perfectly calm for us to have a great session.
1. Don't Pack Your Day Too Full
If you can, try not to schedule your family photo session on one of your busiest days of the week.
You don’t need to spend the entire day sitting around waiting for photos, but you also don’t want to spend the afternoon rushing from baseball practice to gymnastics, grabbing dinner in the car, watching the clock, and praying there isn’t traffic because you have to make it to your session on time.
That kind of rushed energy follows you into the session.
And if you’re stressed, your kids are often going to feel that too.
Give yourself enough breathing room to get everyone dressed, grab what you need, and arrive without feeling like you’re racing the clock.
The goal isn’t to make photos the only thing happening that day. It’s simply to give your family enough space that you’re not walking into the session already exhausted and stressed.
2. Check the Weather and Bring Layers
Washington weather can change quickly, especially in the fall.
Before you leave, check the forecast and dress accordingly. And when in doubt, bring layers.
It is much better to have a jacket or sweater with you and not need it than to desperately need one and not have it.
Cold kids aren’t usually having a great time. And when children are uncomfortable, it can be much harder for them to relax and enjoy themselves.
Layers also give us flexibility during the session. We can add or remove them as needed and keep everyone comfortable.
3. Think Twice About Special Items
If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, toy, or comfort item, you can absolutely bring it.
But here’s something to think about:
Do you want it in the photos?
If the answer is yes, bring it! If you’d rather not have it photographed, you may want to leave it at home.
Sometimes a comfort item can help a child feel safe and comfortable. Other times, once they see it, they want to carry it through the entire session.
Neither is wrong. It’s simply something to consider before you arrive.
4. Choose a Location Your Child Will Enjoy
When choosing a location, don’t just ask:
“Is this beautiful?”
Also ask:
“Will my child enjoy being here?”
Does your child love running and exploring?
Would they be miserable with sand between their toes?
Do they love water?
Do they hate wind?
Are they comfortable walking on gravel or dry grass?
These little things can make a surprisingly big difference.
The most beautiful location in the world isn’t necessarily the best location for your family if your child is uncomfortable the entire time.
I’d much rather choose a place where your family can move, explore, play, and actually enjoy being together.
5. Plan Your Outfits Early—and Choose Something You Feel Good In
Don’t wait until the night before your session to figure out what everyone is wearing.
Give yourself some time.
Your clothing doesn’t need to be perfect, but feeling comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing matters.
If you’re constantly adjusting your clothes, uncomfortable in your shoes, or wishing you’d worn something different, it’s much harder to relax and be present with your family.
Choose clothing that allows you to move, sit, walk, hug your kids, and actually enjoy the session.
And if you’re stuck, I’m always happy to help you think through what will photograph well together.
6. Think Ahead to Bedtime
This one might sound a little strange when we’re talking about family photos, but hear me out.
Most of my sessions happens close to bedtime, think about what would make the transition home easier.
Maybe that means bringing pajamas for the drive home.
Maybe it’s a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Maybe your child has a favorite stuffed animal or blanket that helps them settle down.
Ask yourself:
“What would make getting home and getting everyone into bed easier?”
You don’t have to carry your entire house with you. Just think ahead about the little things that could make the end of the evening smoother.
7. Do Your Very Best to Relax
I know.
This is probably the hardest one.
Because sometimes, during a family session, it can feel like complete chaos.
Your toddler is running.
Someone is talking.
Someone else is climbing something.
Your kids are making ridiculous faces.
And somewhere in the back of your mind you’re thinking,
“Is she actually getting any good photos right now?”
Yes. I am.
Some of the moments that feel the most chaotic from your perspective are the moments I’m watching for.
The laugh you weren’t expecting.
Your kids wrestling with each other.
The way your child runs back to you.
A quick cuddle.
Everyone laughing because something completely ridiculous happened.
Those are the moments that give your photographs personality and emotion.
So take a breath.
Look at your kids.
Smile.
Be with them.
You don’t have to make the session perfect.
You don’t have to make your kids behave perfectly.
And you don’t have to spend the whole time wondering whether we’re getting anything good.
Let me worry about the photographs.
Your job is simply to be there with your family.
The goal isn't a perfect photo session
My favorite family photographs aren’t always the ones where everyone is looking at the camera with a perfect smile.
They’re the photographs that remind you who your family was in this particular season of life.
The wild moments. The quiet ones. The silly faces. The silly dance moves. The cuddles. The personalities. The little things you might not remember years from now.
So prepare where you can, bring your layers, choose a location that works for your family, and then let go of the rest.
I’ll take care of the photographs. You just get to be together.
If you’re looking for relaxed, connection-focused family photos in Poulsbo, Kitsap County, Seattle, or throughout Washington, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels like your family.
