Just Come and Enjoy:
How to Prepare for Your Family Photo Session
5 simple tips — comfy clothes, full bellies, no forced smiles — to help you arrive calm and just enjoy the session.
Family photos aren't a test, and they definitely shouldn't be a stressful task. My goal is to capture you exactly as you are — your love, your laughter, and your real moments together. To make the session relaxed and fun, here are a few simple (and genuinely important) tips to help you prepare:
Comfortable, soft, easy clothing
Skip the stiff, fussy outfits. Choose clothes that are easy to move in, breathe in, and sit on the ground in. This goes for you, and it goes double for the kids. When clothing pinches, itches, or feels tight, it shows immediately on their faces. Let them wear something loose that lets them just run around and be themselves.
Full bellies and good rest (especially for the little ones)
Hunger and tiredness are the biggest enemies of a good mood. Make sure everyone, especially the kids, has a good filling meal before heading out. It's also worth packing some light, non-messy snacks (like cut fruit, a few crackers, or a water bottle) as backup during the shoot. If you have little ones who still nap, make sure they've rested well before the session so they arrive with good energy.
Leave the “say cheese” at home
My most important tip: don’t prep the kids in advance to pose for the camera, don’t rehearse poses with them, and don’t ask them to “smile nicely.” When we ask for a forced smile, we miss their magic. Bring them as they are and let them show their true colors. My camera will catch the real laughter, the glances, and the spontaneous moments.
Bring a few toys from home
It’s always a great idea to bring a small bag with a few simple toys the kids love — a small board game, bubbles, a ball, or even a favourite book. Beyond keeping them busy and giving them a comforting sense of home, these toys become part of the shoot and create the most natural family interaction there is.
Let go of the pressure
Kids won’t sit still? Running around? Going wild? Perfect — that’s exactly what I want to photograph. Don’t try to discipline them or force them to sit during the session. The more you let go, flow with them, and surrender to your perfect family chaos, the more the photos will come out alive, breathing, and full of love.