How to prepare for a family photoshoot family standing outside in fall

How to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot: A Stress Free Plan for Happy Parents and No Tears

Written by Amber Sehrt on November 12, 2025. Posted in Families.

Here’s the truth from my side of the minivan: when most moms think “family photos,” they think about wrangling outfits, syncing calendars, finding that single lost shoe, keeping the toddler from wearing jelly on his sweater, and convincing her partner that this won’t feel like a root canal. Parents want the photographs for their walls, but they also want a day that doesn’t leave them frazzled.

I finally cracked a system that works. It’s simple, it’s kind to everyone’s energy, and it turns picture day into something that actually feels good. This is my mom-tested plan for how to prepare for a family photoshoot so we end with real smiles.

I’m including the timeline for you to follow and the exact bag your should pack. Use what helps and leave the rest. The goal is calm kids, a supportive partner, and pictures that look like your family on a really good day.

The Stress-Lowering Timeline I Give Every Family

This is my week-by-week plan based on the studio’s prep guide. It keeps you from doing everything the night before and crying into a pile of wrinkled clothes.

2–3 Weeks Before

Pick your outfit first. Choose something you truly feel good in. That becomes the anchor for everyone else. Two or three neutrals plus one accent color keeps things easy. If you’re bringing the dog, check the leash and collar so they’re not shabby.
Helpful visual ideas: “What to wear for fall family photos” on the studio blog gives palettes that work in any season.
Confirm the session time and location. If we’re outdoors, I’ll suggest the hour before sunset for soft light. If we’re in the studio, we’ll choose a time that works best for your kids’ sleep. Curious as to how much sleep your kids actually need? Check out this article on healthy sleep habits for kids
Plan grooming. If you want hair trims, color refresh, brow clean-up, or teeth whitening, schedule it now so everything looks natural by session day.

1–2 Weeks Before

Try everything on. Yes, everyone. Let the kids jump, sit, and be scooped up. If anything pinches or rides up, swap it now.
Press or steam and hang. Wrinkles show. Put complete outfits on one hanger per person so you aren’t hunting for belts or tights later. If something needs the dry cleaner, drop it off now.

1 Week Before

Hair and nails. Get husband/kid hair trims, your color or roots refreshed and brow cleanup, and nails that won’t snag on sweaters. If toes will show, take care of nails.
Talk to your partner. Make sure he knows the schedule and his role. Dad’s are usually great at making the kids laugh, so I’ll build that into our flow.

Day Before

Hydrate and keep dinner simple. Lots of water and a lighter, low-salt meal helps everyone feel comfortable. You don’t want to feel bloated tomorrow.
Pack the bag. Use the checklist below and put the tote by the door.
Earlier bedtime. If you can, shift bedtime up a bit so kids are rested. We also plan the session around nap times that work for your family.

Day Of

Set the tone. Speak about the session like a playdate: we’ll walk, cuddle, and play games while I create photographs.
Arrive without rushing. A ten-minute buffer lets kids settle and gives you a breath.
Let me lead. I’ll manage groupings, prompts, and pacing. Your only job is to be with your people.
Celebrate after. Plan a treat like ice cream or a picnic. Bribery is your friend today, but the reward only comes after the session. Everyone leaves with a happy memory tied to picture day.

After the Session

Viewing and ordering. We book a time when you’re both available. Seeing our pictures large and side-by-side makes choosing favorites easy, and you can decide which ones belong on your walls.

The One-Tote Checklist That Saves Your Sanity

This is how you should prepare for a family photoshoot on the practical level. One bag, no chaos.

Low-mess snacks and water. Think puffs, mini crackers, or small marshmallows in cute containers that could end up in photographs. Avoid colorful icing that stains lips and teeth.
Wipes and a small towel. For hands, faces, and quick shoe cleanups.
Layers. A cardigan, leggings, or tights in our color palette so you can keep kids warm without changing the look. For little kids 3 and under, moms will often put multiple layers of socks or tights to keep them warm.
Comfort item. A small lovey helps shy kids settle. We keep it nearby and tuck it away right before each picture.
Hair kit. Brush, small elastics, bobby pins, and a dab of product for flyaways.
Bug and sun care when outdoors. During the warmer months, you may want to apply sunscreen at home 30 minutes before you leave, and use family-safe bug repellent if we’ll be in tall grass. Learn more about the simple rules of sun safety for guidelines on sunscreen.
Baby basics. Extra diaper, wipes, burp cloth, and a ready bottle or nursing plan. Don’t forget an extra set of under layers for diaper-wearing little ones as well. That sudden diaper blowout can wreck your coordinated family outfits.
Tiny bribe bag. Stickers or a few trading cards work wonders for kids under 8. Older kids prefer gift cards to Starbucks, Sephora, and Amazon.

Outfits, Made Simple

As a photographer, I see what works on camera. As a mom of four, I know what kids will actually wear.

Start with one outfit you love. Usually yours! If you feel confident, everything else falls into place. I find long flowing skirts or pants look best in photographs for moms.
Build a small palette. Two or three neutrals like cream, camel, soft gray, and one accent color. The kids get texture instead of busy patterns.
Choose movement-friendly fabrics. We’ll be scooping kids, walking, and sitting. Soft knits, linen, and flowy dresses move beautifully. Cozy sweaters, collared shirts and plain pants for boys (no pants with elastic).
Coordinate, don’t match. We’re telling the same visual story without dressing like clones.
Shoes count. Clean, simple shoes that can handle grass or a park trail. We don’t want you ruining your stilettos if we are outside. I toss magic erasers in the car for a quick touch-up.

If you want real-life examples, peek at these sessions from the studio:

A Family Photo Session at Sunset shows how soft color and movement flatter everyone.
Family Photos Full of Smiles ~ Nara is a masterclass in playful connection.
What to Wear for Fall Family Photos breaks down palettes in a way that’s easy to copy.

The Kid-Happy Strategy That Prevents Meltdowns

Even with the best prep, big feelings show up. Here’s how I stack the deck for smiles.

Protect sleep and meals. I don’t gamble with naps or bedtime on picture day. If the session time nibbles into nap, leave a little early so the kids can do a short car nap. That way, you can aim to arrive ten minutes early so the kids can warm up.
Keep expectations simple. Before you leave, I say, “We’ll meet our photographer, play a few games, and cuddle while they make pictures.”
Play first. We start with a game like “walk and bump shoulders,” “find the softest leaf,” or “squeeze hug.” Movement breaks are magic.
Use micro rewards. One tiny snack between groupings keeps energy up if necessary.
Stay calm if a kid gets upset. If someone melts, I lower the energy, switch to a snuggle prompt, or give a short break. Your calm is contagious, and I’ll coach you through it. Need some other tools to deal with tantrums and mood regulation for kids? Check out this video from PedsDocTalk that gives you tools to diffuse them.
.

Getting Dad On Board

Dad’s aren’t usually gunho for family photos. But they can get on board for a specific window of time. Just keep your discussion about it short and clear.

Explain the why. “I want photographs of us together that our kids will see every day.” It’s not about perfection. It’s about family.
Give a simple game plan. “We’ll be there for an hour. You get to be “fun daddy”, the giggle-maker and chief shoulder-bumper.”
Promise an ending. “Afterwards, we’re grabbing tacos.” Knowing the finish line helps.
Request one thing. For example, “Please help me the day before by steaming your shirt and putting your shoes by the door.” Specific asks beat vague “help me” every time. That assistance helps dads buy into the family session as well.

What The Session Actually Feels Like

When you prepare for a family photoshoot with this plan, the session day feels much more relaxed. We start with the whole family while everyone is fresh, then move into child-only groupings, parents together, and then we play and let the kids have fun. I’ll coach you through flattering angles, natural prompts, and tiny adjustments that make a big difference. If we’re outdoors, expect a little exploring and a lot of play as the light softens. If we’re in the studio, the light is already perfect, and the whole vibe is fun.

After The Photos: Choosing What Lives On Your Walls

A few weeks later during your ordering appointment, I’ll help you view favorites side-by-side so choosing feels easy. We’ll design where the portraits belong in your home and how they’ll look best together. Seeing your family’s connection on the wall is the best daily reminder of why you did this. It’s the best argument for printing, not just keeping everything on a phone.

FAQ

How long does a session take?
Plan for 60 to 90 minutes. That allows for breaks, wiggles, and snack resets without rushing.

What time of day is best?
Outdoors, the last hour before sunset is flattering and cozy. In-studio sessions can be scheduled any time since the light is controlled.

What should we wear for family photos?
Pick your outfit first, then coordinate the family around a small palette. Use texture over busy patterns and choose shoes that can handle grass or sidewalks.

How do I keep toddlers happy during photos?
Protect naps and snacks, keep expectations playful, and let the photographer lead. Micro-breaks between groupings are key.

Can we bring our dog?
Yes. Bring a tidy leash and collar and a treat pouch. A quick walk before we start helps your pup settle.

What if someone wakes up with a bug bite or puffy eyes?
Hydrate, use a cool compress, and tell me. I can adjust angles and grouping. Preventively, apply sunscreen before you leave and bring it to reapply. Use family-safe bug protection for outdoor locations.

Quick Recap You Can Keep On Your Phone

Choose your outfit first. Build a tiny palette for everyone else.
Lock in naps and meals.
Pack the one-tote checklist.
Keep the session playful.
Celebrate after.

When I prepare for a family photoshoot this way, I feel calm, the kids feel supported, Dad knows his role, and the photographs look like us. Not the perfect version of us. The real one that I want to remember.

Ready to Do This (before you over think it)?

If you’re ready for a calm, happy experience with portraits that make you smile every time you pass them, start here: browse a Family Photo Session at Sunset, see Family Photos Full of Smiles ~ Nara, and grab ideas from What to Wear for Fall Family Photos. When you’re excited, head to the Families page to plan your session and get in touch with me.

How to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot: A Stress Free Plan for Happy Parents and No Tears

I finally cracked a system that works. It’s simple, it’s kind to everyone’s energy, and it turns picture day into something that actually feels good. This is my mom-tested plan for how to prepare for a family photoshoot so we end with real smiles.

I’m including the timeline for you to follow and the exact bag your should pack. Use what helps and leave the rest. The goal is calm kids, a supportive partner, and pictures that look like your family on a really good day.

The Stress-Lowering Timeline I Give Every Family

This is my week-by-week plan based on the studio’s prep guide. It keeps you from doing everything the night before and crying into a pile of wrinkled clothes.

2–3 Weeks Before

Plan grooming. If you want hair trims, color refresh, brow clean-up, or teeth whitening, schedule it now so everything looks natural by session day.

1–2 Weeks Before

Try everything on. Yes, everyone. Let the kids jump, sit, and be scooped up. If anything pinches or rides up, swap it now.

Press or steam and hang. Wrinkles show. Put complete outfits on one hanger per person so you aren’t hunting for belts or tights later. If something needs the dry cleaner, drop it off now.

1 Week Before

Hair and nails. Get husband/kid hair trims, your color or roots refreshed and brow cleanup, and nails that won’t snag on sweaters. If toes will show, take care of nails.

Talk to your partner. Make sure he knows the schedule and his role. Dad’s are usually great at making the kids laugh, so I’ll build that into our flow.

Day Before

Hydrate and keep dinner simple. Lots of water and a lighter, low-salt meal helps everyone feel comfortable. You don’t want to feel bloated tomorrow.

Pack the bag. Use the checklist below and put the tote by the door.

Earlier bedtime. If you can, shift bedtime up a bit so kids are rested. We also plan the session around nap times that work for your family.

Day Of

Set the tone. Speak about the session like a playdate: we’ll walk, cuddle, and play games while I create photographs.

Arrive without rushing. A ten-minute buffer lets kids settle and gives you a breath.

Let me lead. I’ll manage groupings, prompts, and pacing. Your only job is to be with your people.

Celebrate after. Plan a treat like ice cream or a picnic. Bribery is your friend today, but the reward only comes after the session. Everyone leaves with a happy memory tied to picture day.

After the Session

Viewing and ordering. We book a time when you’re both available. Seeing our pictures large and side-by-side makes choosing favorites easy, and you can decide which ones belong on your walls.

The One-Tote Checklist That Saves Your Sanity

This is how you should prepare for a family photoshoot on the practical level. One bag, no chaos.

Low-mess snacks and water. Think puffs, mini crackers, or small marshmallows in cute containers that could end up in photographs. Avoid colorful icing that stains lips and teeth.

Wipes and a small towel. For hands, faces, and quick shoe cleanups.

Layers. A cardigan, leggings, or tights in our color palette so you can keep kids warm without changing the look. For little kids 3 and under, moms will often put multiple layers of socks or tights to keep them warm.

Comfort item. A small lovey helps shy kids settle. We keep it nearby and tuck it away right before each picture.

Hair kit. Brush, small elastics, bobby pins, and a dab of product for flyaways.

Bug and sun care when outdoors. During the warmer months, you may want to apply sunscreen at home 30 minutes before you leave, and use family-safe bug repellent if we’ll be in tall grass. Learn more about the simple rules of sun safety for guidelines on sunscreen.

Baby basics. Extra diaper, wipes, burp cloth, and a ready bottle or nursing plan. Don’t forget an extra set of under layers for diaper-wearing little ones as well. That sudden diaper blowout can wreck your coordinated family outfits.

Tiny bribe bag. Stickers or a few trading cards work wonders for kids under 8. Older kids prefer gift cards to Starbucks, Sephora, and Amazon.

Outfits, Made Simple

As a photographer, I see what works on camera. As a mom of four, I know what kids will actually wear.

Start with one outfit you love. Usually yours! If you feel confident, everything else falls into place. I find long flowing skirts or pants look best in photographs for moms.

Build a small palette. Two or three neutrals like cream, camel, soft gray, and one accent color. The kids get texture instead of busy patterns.

Choose movement-friendly fabrics. We’ll be scooping kids, walking, and sitting. Soft knits, linen, and flowy dresses move beautifully. Cozy sweaters, collared shirts and plain pants for boys (no pants with elastic).

Coordinate, don’t match. We’re telling the same visual story without dressing like clones.

Shoes count. Clean, simple shoes that can handle grass or a park trail. We don’t want you ruining your stilettos if we are outside. I toss magic erasers in the car for a quick touch-up.

If you want real-life examples, peek at these sessions from the studio:

A Family Photo Session at Sunset shows how soft color and movement flatter everyone.

Family Photos Full of Smiles ~ Nara is a masterclass in playful connection.

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos breaks down palettes in a way that’s easy to copy.

The Kid-Happy Strategy That Prevents Meltdowns

Even with the best prep, big feelings show up. Here’s how I stack the deck for smiles.

Protect sleep and meals. I don’t gamble with naps or bedtime on picture day. If the session time nibbles into nap, leave a little early so the kids can do a short car nap. That way, you can aim to arrive ten minutes early so the kids can warm up.

Keep expectations simple. Before you leave, I say, “We’ll meet our photographer, play a few games, and cuddle while they make pictures.”

Play first. We start with a game like “walk and bump shoulders,” “find the softest leaf,” or “squeeze hug.” Movement breaks are magic.

Use micro rewards. One tiny snack between groupings keeps energy up if necessary.

.

Getting Dad On Board

Dad’s aren’t usually gunho for family photos. But they can get on board for a specific window of time. Just keep your discussion about it short and clear.

Explain the why. “I want photographs of us together that our kids will see every day.” It’s not about perfection. It’s about family.

Give a simple game plan. “We’ll be there for an hour. You get to be “fun daddy”, the giggle-maker and chief shoulder-bumper.”

Promise an ending. “Afterwards, we’re grabbing tacos.” Knowing the finish line helps.

Request one thing. For example, “Please help me the day before by steaming your shirt and putting your shoes by the door.” Specific asks beat vague “help me” every time. That assistance helps dads buy into the family session as well.

What The Session Actually Feels Like

After The Photos: Choosing What Lives On Your Walls

FAQ

How long does a session take?Plan for 60 to 90 minutes. That allows for breaks, wiggles, and snack resets without rushing.

What time of day is best?Outdoors, the last hour before sunset is flattering and cozy. In-studio sessions can be scheduled any time since the light is controlled.

What should we wear for family photos?Pick your outfit first, then coordinate the family around a small palette. Use texture over busy patterns and choose shoes that can handle grass or sidewalks.

How do I keep toddlers happy during photos?Protect naps and snacks, keep expectations playful, and let the photographer lead. Micro-breaks between groupings are key.

Can we bring our dog?Yes. Bring a tidy leash and collar and a treat pouch. A quick walk before we start helps your pup settle.

What if someone wakes up with a bug bite or puffy eyes?Hydrate, use a cool compress, and tell me. I can adjust angles and grouping. Preventively, apply sunscreen before you leave and bring it to reapply. Use family-safe bug protection for outdoor locations.

Quick Recap You Can Keep On Your Phone

Choose your outfit first. Build a tiny palette for everyone else.

Lock in naps and meals.

Pack the one-tote checklist.

Keep the session playful.

Celebrate after.