How to Prepare Your Kids for a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot

Booking a family photoshoot can feel like a big step . Is it really worth the effort, the admin, the coordination?

I get it. Life is busy, and sometimes the thought of wrangling outfits, naps, and schedules feels like too much. Just another thing to do and convince your family to do. Is the effort worth the result? Are family photos worth it? Stepping out of my photographer mode and answer as a mum . YES .

Because when it’s done right, a family session is less about the logistics and more about creating a memory together. Intentional time together that everyone ( kids and dad included) always LOVE. And then you get pictures to hold and hang onto walls.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the questions families often ask before booking, plus some insider tips to make it feel less like a chore and more like an experience you’ll look forward to.

This guide will walk you through how to prepare your kids (and yourself!) so that your shoot feels easy, fun, and relaxed. From what to wear to when to schedule, and even how to handle toddlers who have zero interest in sitting still, you’ll find practical tips and reassurance that family photos don’t have to be stressful — in fact, they can be the highlight of your week.

Preparing Your Kids for a Family Photoshoot

Let Them Have a Say in What They Wear

One of the easiest ways to get kids of all ages on board is by involving them in their outfit choices. Lay out two or three options that you love, and let them decide. It gives them ownership, helps avoid outfit battles, and often makes them more excited about the session.

I’ve even had families turn this into a little pre-shoot ritual — a mum and her tween daughters once planned their looks together, complete with a manicure and pedicure outing beforehand. They arrived glowing, connected, and buzzing with energy and a dad that was so invested in the experience because everyone FELT so good . Think of it as part of the event itself, not just preparation.

Talk About the Shoot Like It’s Something Fun

How you frame the experience matters. Instead of “We’re having photos taken,” try:

• “We’re going to spend time together at the beach.”
• “Afterward, we’ll have printed pictures to hang at home.”
• “We’ll celebrate with ice cream or a picnic.”
• “lets go for ice cream ( during or afterwards”

When you position the shoot as family time, kids feel less pressure and more excitement. Everytime I do a family shoot , everyone comments that the kids loved the time together and its a reminder to do intentional time together. The appreciation for the time together and then the appreciation of seeing the photos of your loved ones ( and being in them) is absolutely priceless.

Bring Comforts and Snacks

If your child has a favourite soft toy, blanket, or comfort item please bring it along. It helps them feel safe, especially if they’re shy or have special needs. Snacks are also a must (think easy, non-messy options). And yes, bribes and rewards absolutely have their place , just save them for the right moment.

Expect a Warm-Up Period

Your kids don’t know me yet, and that’s okay. I’ll spend the first part of the shoot engaging and easing them in. Some will warm up quickly, others take their time. The best thing you can do is be patient, relax, and let me guide the process.

Parents: Follow Their Lead

One of my golden “rules” if you’re in the photo, don’t point at the camera or tell your kids to “smile.” Practically because I cant photoshop out you pointing at the camera. They’ll take their cues from you. When you’re playful, affectionate, and engaged, their natural smiles and personalities come through effortlessly. We will get that smile and Natural photos always come naturally when they are unforced. Natural photos are by definition what happens when we allow flow and let go of perfection

How to prepare your Toddler for a stressfree Family photoshoot

Toddlers are wonderful and unpredictable. A few things that help:

• Plan naps around the shoot if possible. A well-rested toddler changes everything.
• Don’t set unrealistic expectations if they’re tired — we’ll adapt.
• Pack a spare set of clothes (for them and maybe for you, too).

What to expect at your family shoot , from one parent o another

This one’s important: don’t expect your children to “perform.” Your role is to simply be with them. Love on them, play, laugh, and stay present. A photoshoot isn’t about perfection — it’s about capturing who your family is in this moment.

Also, let me know about your children’s personalities ahead of time. Are they shy? Outgoing? Energetic? Introverted? This helps me connect with them, engage them, and create images that feel true to who they are — not who we think they “should” be.

FAQs About Natural Family Photoshoot

Are Family Photos Worth It?

In short ( and from a mums perspective ) yes, yes, and absolutely yes. Not only are the photos themselves a gift, but think of them as a byproduct of intentional, dedicated time together. You can’t put a price on that. The experience becomes intentional family time , something we rarely pause for in our busy lives. Think of it as a way to slow down, connect, and create memories you’ll revisit for decades.

I wrote a helpful guide about booking your photographer that addresses things to consider from what you need and want from a photoshoot ( mini session vs bespoke package) , number of photos and what to ask and consider when booking. Click here to read that article if you are researching.

What’s the Best Time of Day for a Family Photoshoot?

The most popular choice is golden hour around sunrise or about an hour and a half before sunset. This is when you’ll get that soft, glowing light that feels timeless in photos.

But here’s something really worth considering : the “best” time is the one that works for your family. If your toddler is happiest after a nap, or your teen loves a sleep-in, then we plan around that. A rested family is always better than cranky faces, even if it means shooting earlier or later in the day and this is why I love in home sessions or unconventional locations. The difference will be in the type of lighting – bold and direct in the hours outside of golden hour.

Best Locations for Family Photos on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers

The best location is a location that FITS with your family- consider where your famaily is happy a beach (  Burleigh , Currumbin , Byron Bay or Cabarita Headland  ) or out in nature hunting bugs or climbing treesin a creeek at Burringbar OR skateboarding at your local park or in home where they are most comfortable , its a also a great way to include pets which can also put kids at ease. So the best location need not be a beautiful Lennox Heads headland view ( especially for toddlers who love to run!) it might be ( for your family) your backyard with chickens and toys or just fishing at the creek getting muddy. The best location … is where you are happy and logistically easier. 

Choose a location where your family feels relaxed and happy that’s when you’ll get the the most natural images.

What Should We Wear to a Family Photoshoot?

Clothing sets the tone for your images. I recommend starting with neutral, earthy, or muted tones that complement each other rather than match. Avoid large logos and overly bright colours that can distract.

Most importantly — wear something that feels like you. Comfort equals confidence, and kids especially need to feel at ease in what they’re wearing. I’ve written a full guide on what to wear (and what not to wear) [link here].

Final Tip: Clear Your Schedule

Family photos deserve space. Avoid planning another event right after your shoot and the stress of rushing will show. Instead, let the session be your main focus that day. Think of it as family time with the bonus of beautiful images at the end.