How to Prepare Your Kids for a Family Photo Session
Family photo sessions can be full of laughter, connection, and sweet little moments you’ll cherish forever. But let’s be real—if you’ve ever wrangled a toddler into a sweater or coaxed a camera-shy kiddo into a smile, you know that photo day can feel like a lot.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning (and a lot of grace), you can help your kids feel comfortable, confident, and even excited about the experience.
I’ve photographed dozens of families here in Bismarck, ND, and beyond, and I’m sharing all my go-to tips to help your session feel fun, relaxed, and full of those candid moments that really tell your story.
What This Blog Covers:
What to Expect from a Family Session
My Top Tips for Prepping Kids of All Ages
What to Pack for a Smooth Day
What Happens if Things Don’t Go as Planned
Why It’s Okay If Your Kids Aren’t “Perfect”
What to Expect
First things first: this isn’t about perfect smiles and stiff poses. My sessions are all about connection, play, and genuine moments between you and your people.
We’ll take some time to explore your location, warm up, and follow your family’s pace. If your little one needs a snack break or a moment to cuddle? We roll with it. Some of my favorite images come from those in-between moments.
Top Tips for Prepping Your Kids
1. Talk About It Like It’s an Adventure
Instead of framing the photo session as something formal, let your kids know we’re going to hang out and take some fun photos along the way. For younger kids especially, calling it a “family play date” or “exploring with a new friend” can help ease nerves.
2. Let Them Help Choose Their Outfit
Giving them a few options (that you’ve already pre-approved) makes them feel included and confident in what they’re wearing. The more comfortable they feel, the more natural the photos will be.
3. Avoid the Pressure
Try not to tell your kids things like “You need to behave” or “Don’t mess this up.” I promise—they’ll pick up on your stress. Instead, keep the mood light and encouraging.
4. Practice Makes Familiar
If your child is especially shy or sensitive, try doing a quick “mock photo shoot” at home with your phone. That way, when I bring out my camera, it’s not a totally foreign experience.
5. Feed + Rest First
This one’s big. A tired or hungry kid is no one’s ideal subject. Plan meals and naps around your session time, and feel free to bring water, snacks, and even a small comfort item like a blanket or favorite toy.
What to Pack
Here’s a quick checklist of helpful items to bring along:
- Snacks (non-messy ones work best!)
- Water
- Wipes
- Backup outfits (especially for toddlers)
- Favorite comfort item
- Blanket (great for sitting poses or warming up)
When Things Don’t Go “Perfectly”
Let me tell you: it’s okay. Some of the most meaningful images come from chaos. A little one running wild in the field? That’s freedom. A big sibling helping the little one up after a tumble? That’s connection. These real-life moments are the ones you’ll look back on with so much love.
At the end of the day, this isn’t just about the photos—it’s about documenting your people exactly as they are right now: silly, snuggly, wiggly, curious, and completely themselves.
So take a deep breath. Let the messiness of real life show up. I’ll be there to catch the magic in between.
And if you’re ready to plan your own family photo session here in Bismarck or the surrounding area, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach out through my contact page or check out my family packages here.
Let’s make some memories!
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