Simple ways to keep the whole family happy (and looking like themselves)

Let’s be honest:

There’s usually one person in the family excited about photo day and it’s not the toddlers or the dads. If you’re the one planning a session and trying to wrangle everyone else’s enthusiasm… I see you. It can feel like a lot.

But the good news? You don’t need everyone to love being in front of the camera. You just need a few smart moves to set the tone and make the experience easy.



Here’s how to make family photo day something everyone actually enjoys and maybe even looks forward to.

1. Set the Vibe Early

Tell your kids (and your partner) that this isn’t a “sit still and smile” kind of session. Let them know it’ll feel more like hanging out at the park or going on a walk than posing.

Most families I photograph are surprised by how relaxed the session feels. And that starts with you framing it as low-pressure from the beginning.

2. Let Go of “Perfect”

The best family photos aren’t the ones where everyone is stiff and smiling at the camera, they’re the ones where your kid is giggling in your lap or racing toward you with grass-stained knees.

Give everyone permission to be themselves. That energy is what makes the images real.

3. Prep, Don’t Bribe

Instead of dangling rewards, give your kids ownership:

“Do you want to wear your blue shoes or your brown ones?”

“Should we spin or jump in our photos?”

Little choices go a long way in making them feel like part of the day and that energy shows up beautifully in the photos.

4. Feed Everyone First (Including You)

It sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. Snacks before the shoot, water in the car, and no one running on fumes, including you. A well-fed family is a happy one.

5. Trust the Photographer (That’s Me)

You don’t need to be the cruise director. I’ve got you covered. From keeping things moving to knowing when to take a break, part of my job is reading the room and making it all feel effortless.

You focus on being present with your family, I’ll handle the rest.

Family photos don’t have to feel forced. They can be fun, even for the most camera-shy member of your crew.

And when they’re fun, they’re real and when they’re real, they last.

Ready to book a session that feels easy, relaxed, and totally you?

Let’s make some magic: Click below to schedule

Is it golden hour yet?