One of the most common things I hear from moms before a family session is, “I just hope we get at least one good picture.” I get it. I have little ones myself and they can be crazy at times. We put so much pressure on ourselves to make sure our kids smile, listen, and behave for family pictures. But they really don't need to.
Kids want to move and play, and honestly, that's when I get some of my favorite pictures. They don't need to sit perfectly still and smile at the camera the entire time for us to get beautiful images. As a South Jersey family photographer, a huge part of my job is getting kids comfortable enough to just be themselves.
Don't Make Family Pictures a Big Deal
Before your session, let younger kids know that you're going to take some pictures together and it's going to be fun. Tell them they don't have to smile the whole time, but that they should try to follow directions when they're asked. For older kids, I would keep it simple too. Something like, “We're going to take some pictures together and it won't take forever.” That's really all they need to know. The more we talk about how they need to “be good” or “smile for the photographer,” the more pressure it can put on them. We want them to come into the session feeling relaxed and comfortable. And if they need a break? We take a break.
Think About What Time Your Kids Are Happiest
Depending on the time of year, outdoor family sessions may happen pretty early in the morning or later in the evening because that's when we get the best light. But your kids matter more than the “perfect” time. If your toddler is miserable by 7 p.m., let me know. Some of my early morning family sessions are scheduled simply because that's when the kids are happiest. We'll talk about all of this when we plan your session and figure out what makes the most sense for your family.
Bring the Snacks. And the Favorite Toy.
I always recommend bringing snacks, treats, and whatever else your child loves that makes them happy. I once had a little girl who insisted on holding her Rapunzel doll throughout her family session. She was shy and nervous, but that doll made her feel comfortable. So Rapunzel stayed. And the pictures turned out perfect. Her family ended up with beautiful images of their daughter exactly as she was at that age—in her full Disney princess stage. The next time I photographed their family, there wasn't a princess doll in sight. That's why I love things like this. These little stages change so quickly. The things they're completely obsessed with right now won't always be there. Sometimes the thing you think shouldn't be in the pictures ends up being exactly what makes them special.
Your Kids Don't Have to Be Perfect
Kids don't need to be perfectly behaved to get beautiful family photos. Actually, the more they play, explore, laugh, and interact with you, the better. Those are the moments that give you pictures that actually feel like your family.
I love a gallery with a mix of both candid and posed images. Of course, we'll get the beautiful picture of everyone together that you can hang on your wall. But we'll also get the little moments in between. The laughing. The snuggling. The silliness. Maybe even a little wrestling. Those are the things you're going to want to remember too.
We'll Plan Everything Before Your Session
Before your family session, we'll have a design consultation so I can learn a little more about you and your kids.
I'll ask about their personalities, what they love, and what usually gets them laughing. If they love Baby Shark, there's a pretty good chance I'm going to be singing Baby Shark during your session.
We'll also talk about where your session will take place, what time works best for your family, what you're going to wear, and whether you prefer more candid or posed images. Having all of this figured out ahead of time means there's a lot less for you to worry about the day of your session. You can just show up and be with your family.
So if you're worried that your kids are too wild, too shy, won't sit still, or aren't going to cooperate for family pictures, don't be. They're kids. They're supposed to be a little unpredictable. And that's okay.
If you're looking for a family photographer in Mullica Hill or South Jersey who is completely fine with a little chaos, I'd love to help you plan your family session.
