5 Tips to Make Family Photo Season a Breeze
The kids are back in school, you’re settling into a normal routine, and if you’re a planner like me, you realize it’s time to contact your trusted photographer.
And yes, planning holiday card photos in the summer may seem a little extreme…because it is. But here’s the thing: the best photographers get booked up fast. And there’s good reason for that. Which brings me to my first tip.
1. Pick a Great Photographer
Not just good—a GREAT one.
I know this sounds obvious, but it’s worth saying. A skilled photographer does more than just snap pictures—they capture your best self. They know their camera, lighting, and editing, yes—but they also set the tone for the session.
Over the years, we’ve had photographers who were dull, and my kids had a hard time staying engaged. A playful, charismatic photographer who gives clear direction can make the session fun and generate genuine smiles. Those are the moments you really want to capture.
2. Outfit Planning
Outfit planning was a close contender for suggestion number one.
It can feel like a pain, but only if you let it! Start early—after booking your session, start the search, and start with the star of the show: Mom. Mom has to love the way she looks. Once you have that one look, the rest will naturally fall into place.
Some tips:
- Beach sessions: neutrals—white, beige, soft blues, greens
- Fall sessions: warm, earthy tones—rich browns, cream, burgundy, deep green
3. Keep It Quick
You might be surprised at how short the session should be. I remember thinking, 15–30 minutes? That’s it?! But once we did it, I completely understood.
This time frame gives a skilled photographer enough room to get several different shots without losing the kids’ attention. Longer sessions? They can become a drag.
I like to mix it up:
- Some posed shots for that classic Christmas card cover
- Some candid moments
- A few pictures with just my husband and me—because our phones are full of kid photos, but not as many of us
Also, consider timing. Think ahead about hunger, nap schedules, or crankiness to keep the session as smooth as possible.
4. Get Everyone Excited
The bulk of the work comes before the session. Selling family photos as fun can make a huge difference.
My husband and I work together on this. We plant the idea early and casually bring it up in the weeks leading up to the session. We practice our smiles, talk about how fun it will be during dinner, car rides, or while seeing relatable images on TV or in magazines.
And here’s my secret weapon: a little post-session surprise.
I pick one or two small gifts I know the kids will love—a LEGO set, a Barbie, a new book, or a coloring kit—and wrap them up to keep in the car. It works better than candy or ice cream because they get to wonder what’s inside, keeping anticipation high.
5. Make It a Tradition
The changes in our kids may seem subtle day-to-day, but year after year? They’re impossible to miss.
Investing in an annual family photo session builds a treasured collection of moments you’ll never get back.
So pump yourself and your family up, bring your best attitude, and have fun. Capture your picture-perfect family—even if the day-to-day is a little messy.
