How to Prepare your children for Family Photos.

As a family photographer, my goal isn’t to create perfectly posed images with cheesy smiles! It’s to capture you and your family being yourselves. Nothing staged, nothing fake, just real moments that you'll treasure for years to come.

Here’s how I help parents prepare their children for a photoshoot and why letting go of control is the best thing you can do.

Let children, Be in Charge!

One of the biggest challenges I see is parents trying to control their children: making them stand still, look at the camera, and smile on cue. The truth?

Children are not props! They’re humans with their own curiosity, energy, and attention spans.

On session day, your kids are in charge. Let them explore, play, and interact naturally. You’ll get authentic moments that truly reflect who they are at this stage in life.

For example, I worked with a nearly-two-year-old and his mom. At first, he was shy and unsure of what was happening. I suggested a few simple poses to start, but then I stepped back and encouraged them to play. The mom grabbed some grass and tickled him, and soon he was laughing and completely himself. That’s when the magic happened. Unposed, natural, joyful moments. Those are the photos his family treasures the most.

This is the moment!

let your children know about the shoot!

Children thrive on being part of the action, so why not invite them into the excitement of a photoshoot?

Make it clear that this experience is about fun. Where they can play , explore, be in charge and truly express themselves. Plan your session with them like what games you would like to play?

Additionally, a great way to ease any shyness is to introduce them to me beforehand. You could show thema photo of me and share my name. This simple gesture can work wonders, as it gives them a sense of famililarty before we even start the session!

Snacks (and Water!)

Little bodies burn energy fast, especially during sessions filled with play, running, and discovering the world around them. Bring snacks that your child will definitely eat, not the “maybe if they’re in the mood” snacks. This keeps spirits high and helps us avoid hangry moments. Quick bites that are non-messy snacks like raisins , crackers, or a favourite treat work perfectly. And don’t forget water for everyone. A small refresh can reset the entire vibe. If they need a little break thats totally okay. We can pause for a quick snack so they refresh ready to jump back in!

Naps: Flexibility Is Everything

A well-rested child usually engages more easily, especially outdoors where there’s so much to explore. But life with small children isn’t predictable, and that’s okay. If a nap runs late or doesn’t happen at all, we’ll adapt. Sometimes a slower, clingier child brings out soft, tender moments. Sometimes a wildly energetic child brings pure magic. We follow their lead, not the clock.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection!

Some of the most meaningful family photos don’t come from perfectly posed smiles or everyone looking at the camera at the same time. They happen in the in-between moments when parents are fully present with their children.

Lifting a toddler into the air, chasing each other during a game of tag, holding tiny hands while walking, or sharing an unplanned hug or kiss often creates images that feel alive and deeply personal.

When families let go of the pressure to “get it right,” something magical happens. Kids relax, parents soften, and genuine emotions take center stage. A little laughter, a bit of movement, even a touch of chaos can turn an ordinary moment into a powerful memory. These authentic interactions tell a story. Your story! far better than any perfectly coordinated pose ever could.

Instead of worrying about everyone’s hair, outfits, or whether your child is standing still, focus on being together. Talk, play, cuddle, and simply enjoy one another. Those fleeting connections the way your child leans into you, the shared smiles, the spontaneous joy — are what make family photos timeless. Years from now, these images won’t just remind you of how you looked; they’ll bring you back to how it felt to be in that moment together.

Dress for comfort

Comfort is key! Especially when Children move, roll, and explore with their whole bodies! Which means grass stains, dusty hands, and sometimes muddy knees. It’s all part of the story.

I always recommend neutral clothing with no loud prints, characters, or bold patterns, as they draw attention away from connection and emotion. Think soft tones: whites, beiges, creams, muted browns, light pastels.

Little tip : a good idea to have them try on their outfit beforehand just to make sure everything fits as it should.

Also consider the environment. If we’re shooting in a field, skip green trousers or bright blue tops that blend in. And keep timing in mind too: if you’re traveling in the car to your shoot or your child will be eating lunch on the way, it may not be the best idea to have them dressed in their outfits just yet. Saving outfits for arrival helps avoid spills, stains, and unnecessary stress.

And if you’re unsure, don’t worry! I'll provide a style guide ahead of time to help coorinadate the whole family look!

Ready to book your session?

I hope these tips have eased any worries you had about your famiy photoshoota. As a family photographer based in Devon, I'm passionate about capturing your unqiue story. Together, we can create beautiful memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

If you're intrested in booking a session or would like to discuss how I work, don't hesitate to get in touch. I'd be thrilled to help tell your family story!