It’s no secret that family photos require effort on everyone’s part. From finding the right photographer to shopping for the perfect outfits to making sure everyone is ready on time, there are a lot of moving parts to a successful photo outing! 

One of the most effective ways to make sure you and your family are ready for photos is to take action and be prepared. Trust me, a little work ahead of time can make a huge difference on your scheduled day. In this post, I’ve outlined a few of my tried and true tips for a successful session. I hope they help you!

Plan Ahead

The best way to get your family photos started on the right foot is to book early. Make sure you have enough time to get everything prepared, from shopping around for outfits to managing your calendar to avoid any scheduling conflicts. Do your future self a favor and stay organized from the very beginning!

Ask Questions

I love it when my clients aren’t afraid to ask questions. I am an open book of resources when it comes to all things family photo-related. I never want any of my clients to feel confused or left in the dark about any part of the process. Don’t hesitate or think twice, just ask. There are no dumb questions!

Choose an Ideal Location

For the majority of people, the most ideal location is one that is convenient for your family. Focus on a spot that is close to home, manageable to get to, and feels special to you. Don’t stress too much about the backdrop– we can create beautiful family pictures anywhere! I am more than happy to help come up with location ideas within the Memphis area.

Don’t Forget to Eat

Eating a hearty meal before your scheduled session is a must-do, especially with kids. Plan to get everyone’s tummy full about an hour beforehand so we can avoid any hangry family members. Don’t forget to pack a few snacks as well! This is a great time to break out the “fun treats” to keep your kiddos motivated and happy.

Be Flexible

Taking pictures of young (and older!) kids can take some unexpected twists and turns. It often requires some out-of-the-box thinking, from both parents and photographers! One great way to avoid wardrobe mishaps is to gather your kids’ outfits in the car and get everyone dressed after you arrive at the destination. This way, their clothes stay crisp and clean on the drive.

Pamper Yourself

Family pictures are a lot of work for parents, especially moms! Consider using photos as an opportunity to outsource your hair and make-up because 1. you deserve it and 2. then you can focus on getting everyone else ready without compromising your own appearance. It’s a win-win for the whole family! (Need more convincing? I talk more about this topic here.)

Make it a Fun Family Outing

The biggest thing that will change your family photos from a stressful day to a memorable experience is your attitude. Come up with a few ways to make your session a fun outing for your whole family, like shopping together beforehand or getting a treat afterward. Think of something that everyone in your crew will look forward to!

Ultimately, the best way you can ensure that your pictures go smoothly is by showing up feeling relaxed, confident, and ready to let me work my magic. Leave all the work to me, I will focus on capturing you in your best light so you can just have a good time with the people you love most. I can’t wait to get started!