How to Prepare Kids for a Family Photo Session (Without the Stress!)

Family photos should be fun, not stressful—but if you're worried about how your kids will handle the session, you're not alone! The good news? You don't need perfect, still, smiling children for beautiful photos. The best images happen when kids feel comfortable and free to be themselves. Here's how to set them (and yourself) up for a relaxed, happy session.

1. Set Expectations, But Keep It Light

Talk to your kids beforehand about what to expect, but don't make it a big deal. Keep it positive, like, "We're going to have some fun while a friend takes our pictures!" Avoid telling them to be on their "best behavior" or "smile nicely"—this can add pressure and backfire. Instead, encourage them just to be themselves and have fun!

2. Make Sure They're Fed and Rested

A hungry, overtired child is not a happy child. Try to schedule your session at a time when they're usually in a good mood.Have snacks on hand just in case, but avoid anything messy or that could stain outfits. Hydration is key, too—especially in Arizona's heat.

3. Let Them Be Themselves

If your kid is full of energy, that's okay! I'll roll with it. Some of the best moments happen when kids are just being kids. Let them run, jump, giggle, or snuggle in—authentic interactions make for the most heartfelt photos. If they have a silly streak, we'll embrace it. If they're shy, we'll go at their pace. There's no right or wrong way to be in a photo session.

4. Bring Comfort Items (If Needed)

If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or toy that helps them feel safe, bring it along! Sometimes, holding onto something familiar can make a big difference in how comfortable they feel. Plus, a beloved teddy in the photos? That's a memory in itself. If your kid is attached to something but you don't want it in every photo, we can start with it and then set it aside once they feel more confident... depending on how the toy is being held, i can also photoshop it out ;)

5. Don't Worry About Perfection

Kids are unpredictable, it's normal and no behavior surprises me. None. If they get grumpy, we'll take a break. If they want to run around, we'll capture that energy. The goal isn't stiff, posed photos; it's capturing real moments that feel like your family. The more relaxed you are, the more they'll follow your lead.

6. Keep the Bribes Low-Key

Fruit snacks are a great low-mess treat that can be helpful to have on hand, but be cautious not to put too much pressure on your kid to "perform". Promising a post-session treat (hello, ice cream!) also works fine for some kids - you know your kid best. Just be caucious not to dangle it over their heads too much. Saying "If you smile nicely, you'll get a treat" can add pressure and make the session feel like a chore. Instead, keep it fun and light: "Afterward, we're going to do something special together!"

7. Trust the Process

I've worked with kids of all ages and personalities—I promise we'll get beautiful images no matter what. You focus on enjoying the moment, and I'll handle the rest. If your little one is having an off day, we'll adapt. The best photos are the ones that show your family as they indeed are—joyful, silly, real, and full of love.

At the end of the day, family photos are about capturing love, connection, and joy—not perfect poses. So take a deep breath and let go of any worries, we'll have fun, I promise ;)

Have any concerns or special needs to consider? Reach out—I'd love to chat and make this the best experience for your family!