Preparing for a family photo session can be a challenge, especially when juggling the needs of everyone involved. To make the process easier, I’ve put together a handy checklist filled with tips to ensure you’re fully prepared. Whether it’s your first photoshoot or your tenth, this guide will help you stay organized and stress-free, so you can focus on creating beautiful memories.
Clothes
The first step in preparing for a family photo shoot is choosing outfits for everyone. You might need to shop for new matching outfits, or you may already have something in mind—just be sure everything is clean and ironed well in advance. While some families enjoy coordinating in matching outfits, it’s not a requirement unless it suits your style. Even sticking to a shared color palette can create a cohesive look, or you can simply focus on wearing polished, flattering outfits. I recommend avoiding loud patterns and itchy fabrics, as they can be distracting or uncomfortable during the session.
Grooming Appointments
Next, it’s important to schedule any grooming appointments well in advance. If anyone needs a haircut or hairstyling, be sure to take care of this before the day of the photoshoot. Don’t forget the smaller details, like trimming nails and grooming facial hair, to ensure everyone looks their best. If you plan to book a makeup appointment for the day of the shoot, schedule it early enough to allow for any delays. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to arrive at the photoshoot on schedule and stress-free.
Entertaining The Kids
If you have younger kids, this section is for you. You’re going to want to bring snacks and some water for the kiddos in case they get peckish or thirsty during the photo shoot, especially if it takes place outside in the heat and requires some walking. Make sure the snacks aren’t messy so the kids don’t mess up their clothes. Some good ideas include: gummy snacks, animal crackers, and or trail mix. Because kids can sometimes make a mess out of anything, we also suggest bringing some baby wipes for their faces. Kids will also appreciate it if you bring something to comfort or entertain them when it’s not their turn to take pictures. This might mean bringing a tablet, doll baby, book, or other small toy for them.
Extra Tips
Since we’ve covered a lot of the main things let’s cover some extra tips that could be helpful for you and your family before or during the photoshoot.
- If you’re doing an outdoor photoshoot be sure to bring sunscreen and or bug spray.
- Bring a comb or a brush in case you need to fix anyone’s hair.
- Discuss how the photoshoot will work with family members before the session. Explain how long it will take and encourage cooperation, especially from younger children or teens who might be less enthusiastic.
- Test your outfits ahead of time to make sure they meet your standards.
- Arrive early so can give yourself extra time to park, get ready, and settle in before the session starts.
- If you have kids, when scheduling, choose a time of day when kids are well-rested and fed to avoid moodiness.
- If the session is long, allow kids time to run around, explore, or take a quick snack break. This helps them recharge and stay cooperative.
- If kids are silly, playful, or a little shy, don’t force them into poses. Let their personalities shine, and the photos will feel more genuine.
- Keep the mood light and fun; kids pick up on stress or frustration.
- Be patient and accept that not every moment will be picture-perfect, and that’s okay.
I hope this article helps you to prepare for your family photoshoot!