What to Expect at Your Family Photoshoot

So, you’ve booked your family photoshoot—awesome! You’re probably excited, maybe a little nervous, but don't worry! A family photo session should be a fun experience for everyone, and it’s all about capturing those genuine moments you’ll cherish for years to come. If you're wondering what the process is like, I've got you covered. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on what to expect before, during, and after your family photoshoot.

Step 1: The Planning Stage – Let’s Talk Details

Before the big day, we’ll chat about all the important details—location, outfits, the vibe you’re going for, and any special requests you may have. Whether you want your shoot to be outdoors in a park or in the comfort of your home, we’ll work together to pick a spot that suits your family’s personality. During this stage, I'll also ask about your kids' ages, whether you’re including pets, or if there are any must-have photos you’ve been dreaming about (think: grandparents, the family dog, or maybe a fun prop you want to include). We’ll nail down all the little things to make sure everyone is prepared and comfortable.

Step 2: Getting Ready – Don’t Sweat It, It’s Gonna Be Fun!

The day of the shoot is here! This is when the excitement kicks in, and I want to make sure everyone feels relaxed. Here are a couple of tips for making sure you’re all set for the session:

Pick out your outfits ahead of time (and feel free to reach out for styling advice!). The goal is to coordinate, not match exactly, so that everyone looks like they belong together without looking too “matchy-matchy.” Think of colors and textures that complement each other. And don’t forget to be comfortable! Make sure the kids are well-rested and fed before the shoot—nothing ruins a photo session like a hangry toddler! Depending on your shoot location, you might want to bring snacks, water, and maybe a toy for younger kids to help them feel at ease. If we’re shooting outdoors, don’t forget sunscreen and maybe a blanket if you’ll be sitting on the ground.

Step 3: The Session – Let’s Have Some Fun!

Once we meet up, I’ll guide you through the session, but the goal is to make it as easy and natural as possible. You don’t have to worry about posing stiffly—think of it more like spending quality time with your loved ones while I capture the moments. If you have kids, we’ll let them be themselves and just play. I might prompt you to interact with each other—hug, laugh, dance around, or play some games—this helps capture those real, loving moments that make the photos pop. Here’s a little secret: the more relaxed and fun you are, the better your photos will turn out! So, if your little one is feeling shy or it takes a minute to get everyone’s attention, no worries. I’ll be patient and wait for the right moment to capture those beautiful, candid shots.

Step 4: The Magic Moment – When Everyone’s Smiling

At some point, we’ll take a few group shots where everyone looks directly at the camera, and we’ll get those classic family portraits that are perfect for framing or holiday cards. Don’t worry if you think your kids are going to wiggle around or not smile at the camera. It’s all part of the process, and I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve to help them feel comfortable and give me those genuine smiles.

Step 5: The Final Reveal – Your Photos Are Ready!

After the session, I’ll get to work on editing your images. I’ll send you a sneak peek as soon as I can (because I know you’re dying to see them!), and then you’ll receive a full gallery within a couple of weeks. Once you’ve had a chance to look through all the photos, you can pick your favorites and decide what to print, frame, or turn into gifts for family members. There’s nothing like seeing those moments turned into stunning prints that will be treasured for years.

And there you have it! From the planning stage to the final reveal, your family photoshoot will be a relaxed, fun experience that you and your family will remember for years to come. Whether you’re capturing milestones or simply freezing time in a moment of joy, these photos are more than just pictures—they’re memories in the making.

So, go ahead—take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and let’s make some beautiful memories together!