How to Prepare for Your Family Photography Session

A helpful guide to preparing for your family photography session, including what to wear, how to prepare your children, and what to expect for a relaxed experience.

Family walking together through a sunlit field wearing coordinated white and neutral outfits.

Your family session is designed to feel relaxed, natural and connection-led — not posed or forced. This guide will help you feel prepared, confident and at ease so you can simply enjoy time together while I capture your story.

Large family group posing together in a sunlit meadow wearing coordinated outfits.

Before Your Session

Set the Tone (Not the Pressure)

The most beautiful family photos come from connection, not perfection. Please don’t stress about children behaving a certain way or everyone smiling at the camera. Movement, laughter, cuddles and even quiet moments are all part of your story.

A relaxed parent = relaxed children 🤍

Talk to Your Children (Gently)

If your children are old enough, let them know:

  • You’re spending time together
  • You’ll be playing, walking, cuddling or chatting
  • There’s no pressure to “perform” or smile

Avoid telling them they must behave — this can create anxiety. Instead, frame it as a fun family experience.

Family sitting together in a grassy field during golden hour sunset.

What to Wear

Keep It Simple & Coordinated

Rather than matching outfits, aim to coordinate colours and textures.

Best colour palettes:

  • Creams, whites, soft browns
  • Warm neutrals, muted pastels
  • Earthy tones (beige, rust, olive, soft blue)

Avoid:

  • Bright colours
  • Large logos or text
  • Busy patterns or graphics

For Mums

Choose something you feel comfortable and confident in.

  • Flowing dresses, linen, soft knits photograph beautifully
  • Neutral tones are timeless and flattering
  • Movement adds softness and emotion

I will guide you into natural, flattering positions — you never need to worry about how you look.

For Dads

  • Neutral shirts, knits or linen
  • Avoid strong branding or bold colours
  • Bare feet often photograph beautifully (where appropriate)

For Children

  • Soft, comfortable fabrics
  • Neutral tones or gentle patterns
  • Bare feet or simple shoes

Comfort is key — children who feel good move freely and naturally.

Children playing together under large trees in a park setting.

KEEP EVERYONE IN A COHESIVE COLOUR PALETTE (FAMILIES)

You don’t have to match — aim to coordinate.

Choose 2–3 tones and mix them across the family.

For example:

• Beige + white + sage

• Tan + cream + muted pink

• Khaki + grey + soft denim

Avoid putting everyone in the exact same colour.

Small children sitting together in a grassy field at sunset.

What to Bring

  • Snacks or water for children (nothing messy)
  • Comfort items if needed (blanket, toy)
  • Wipes for quick clean‑ups

Try to keep bags minimal so you can stay present and hands‑free.

Friends laughing together in a casual outdoor photo session.

During Your Session

Your session is child‑led and unhurried.

  • Children are free to explore, move and be themselves
  • We follow their energy — playful or calm
  • There is no pressure for perfect poses or smiles

I’ll gently guide you with prompts rather than rigid posing, allowing moments to unfold naturally.

If your child needs a break, cuddle or moment to reset — that’s completely okay.

Candid moments of joy and laughter during an outdoor family photoshoot.

Location Tips

Whether outdoors or at home:

  • Trust the process — you don’t need to worry about space or light
  • Natural movement works beautifully (walking, sitting, holding hands)
  • Embrace your surroundings — they become part of your story

I’ll guide you into the best light and areas during the session.

Child sitting alone in a field wearing white clothing during sunset.

Trust the Experience

Your children don’t need to be still. You don’t need to know how to pose. Your family doesn’t need to look perfect.

All you need to do is:

  • Be close
  • Be present
  • Love on your people

The rest unfolds naturally.




If you have any questions before your session, please reach out — I’m always here to support you 🤍

Extended family gathering in a field during golden hour wearing coordinated outfits.