How to Prepare for Family Photos: 3 Mistakes to Avoid Before Your Session
If you’re wondering how to prepare for family photos, you’re in the right place. After photographing hundreds of St. Louis families, I’ve learned that the biggest challenges usually happen before the session even starts. The good news? With a little preparation, your family photos can feel fun, relaxed, and stress-free.
Let’s imagine it’s finally family photo day.
You’ve spent weeks planning outfits, coordinating schedules, and convincing your kids this is going to be fun. There may have even been a few bribes…and maybe a couple of threats (no judgment here).
Then the morning arrives.
Someone can’t find their shoes.
Someone else suddenly refuses to wear beige.
You’re wondering why you booked family photos in the first place.
Take a deep breath.
This is completely normal.
How to Prepare for Family Photos Without Feeling Rushed
One of the biggest mistakes families make is running late.
When everyone is scrambling out the door, your kids feel that stress immediately. Suddenly everyone is overwhelmed before you’ve even arrived.
Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You Need
I intentionally build extra time into every family session because I know life with kids is unpredictable.
If someone needs one more snack, another bathroom break, or takes forever putting on shoes, it’s okay.
Once you arrive, I’ll take it from there.
How to Prepare Family Photo Outfits Before Picture Day
Wardrobe problems are one of the easiest things to prevent.
That adorable dress looked perfect online…until it arrived.
Your toddler suddenly decides buttons are unacceptable.
Shoes disappear.
Belts vanish.
Wrinkles magically appear.
Try Everything On Before Your Family Photos
Two days before your session, lay out every outfit.
Make sure each person’s clothing, shoes, socks, belts, bows, and accessories are together in one place.
Trying everything on ahead of time gives you plenty of time to solve any surprises.
And if something happens on the way to your session?
Don’t worry.
I always bring clips, a sewing kit, and years of Photoshop experience for those unexpected spills or little wardrobe mishaps.
How to Prepare Kids for Family Photos
Parents often ask me how to keep their children happy during a family session.
The answer might surprise you.
It’s usually better to leave the distractions in the car.
Skip the iPads, Toys, and Snacks
When kids have a favorite toy, tablet, or stuffed animal in their hands, that’s where their attention stays.
Instead, let me be the entertainment.
We’ll play games, tell jokes, explore, and keep everyone moving so your children’s personalities naturally shine through.
If we need a quick break, we’ll absolutely take one.
Save the special treats for after the session—they work much better as a celebration than as a bargaining chip.
Family Photo Preparation Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
The truth is, preparing for family photos doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Your only job is to show up.
I’ll handle the rest.
When parents are relaxed, kids feel relaxed.
And that’s when genuine smiles, laughter, cuddles, and authentic moments happen.
Those are the images you’ll treasure for years to come.
Looking for a Stress-Free Family Photographer in St. Louis?
If you’re searching for a St. Louis family photographer who will guide you through every step of the process—from styling advice to helping your children have fun during the session—I would love to help.
You can learn more about my family photography sessions, browse the client wardrobe guide, or contact me to start planning your next family session.
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