What to Expect on a Typical Family Photo Session?

Booking a family photography session is an exciting way to capture the you and your family just as you are in this moment. Perhaps you want to mark a milestone birthday or celebration, or perhaps you just want to have a photograph of YOU and your beautiful family together! Whatever your reason, a portrait session is a wonderful way to document your family’s journey.

Time flies and before we know it our little ones are all grown up and making their own way in the world. Family photographs become all the more precious with every passing year; a beautiful testament to all the happy memories you made together along the way.

As a parent, you might have questions or concerns about what to expect from a typical family portrait session. This guide will give you a better understanding of the process and make the experience enjoyable and stress-free!

Before Your Portrait Session: Planning and Preparation

Choosing the Right Photographer

When you’re choosing a photographer, look at their portfolios and try to find someone whose style resonates with you and your family. Reading reviews and scheduling a consultation to discuss your vision and expectations can also help you make the right choice. If you have any questions about my style of work and approach, my door is always open and I encourage you to reach out. I’ll be happy to talk through your hopes for your shoot and make sure we create a collection of photographs which will leave you beaming from ear to ear!

Outfits and Styling

I wrote an article full of advice on how to “Dress for Success” in your family photo session, so be sure to make the most of all the top tips in there! If you’d like personalised advice on wardrobe choices ahead of your photography session , I’m always here to help.

Location, Location, Location

Decide on a location that holds meaning for you and your family. It’s always lovely for me to create a beautiful set of family portraits in a spot which I know already holds meaningful memories for my clients. Whether it’s a favourite park, beach or your own home, the setting should reflect your family’s personality. I am always happy to suggest photogenic locations if you’re unsure.

Timing is Everything

Plan the session around your family’s schedule, considering nap times for younger children, and choose a time of day when everyone is generally in good spirits. The “golden hour” often offers the most flattering natural light for outdoor sessions. That said, if earlier in the day is better then, having over 15 years experience as photographer in the UK, I’m very adept at adapting to the changing weather and locating the right place to shoot in any given light situation.

During the Session: What to Expect

A typical family photography session with me lasts about two hours. Here’s a breakdown of what happens during that time:

Warm-Up and Getting Comfortable

I’ll spend the first few minutes getting to know your family and making everyone feel comfortable. We’re not all accustomed to having our photograph taken by a professional, so a few minutes to talk and settle into the session helps everyone to relax and feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

Posed and Candid Shots

Expect a mix of posed and candid shots. I like to choose a spot with an interesting background where I know the light will be flattering and position my clients there. I’ll then shoot a few posed photos to ensure we have everyone looking their best, before encouraging it all to fall apart; capturing candid shots filled with genuine interaction and emotion. I’ll be by your side every step of the way to guide you through different poses and activities to keep the session fun and dynamic.

Keeping Kids Engaged

I am a Mum of two little ones myself and I fully understand that children are not robots. They little humans whose emotions can sometimes run high! I am very relaxed about responding to their mood and choosing my moment to make sure I capture the very best portraits of them. With years of experience working with children under my best, I am not afraid to make as big a fool out of myself as possible if it keeps them engaged and happy! Feel free to bring any favourite toys or snacks to help keep little ones smiling.

Relax and Have Fun

The best photos come when everyone is relaxed and having fun. Don’t worry about perfection. Authentic moments make the most beautiful photos and you can trust me to capture those special interactions.

After the Session: What Comes Next?

Viewing and Selecting Photos

After the session, I’ll send your film away to my lab fairies in California and present you with a gallery to review approximately 6 weeks after your shoot. You’ll have the opportunity to choose your favourite images for prints, albums or digital downloads. You’ll find a full breakdown of my products and pricing on my investment page.

Prints and Products

Consider how you want to display your photos. I offer professional high quality prints, modern aluminium float framed prints and beautiful flushmount albums. Think about where you’d like to display your family portraits in your home and choose the products that best suit your style.

If you’re unsure whether to opt for physical products be sure to check out my article sharing 5 Reasons to Print Your Photographs!

Sharing with Loved Ones

Family photos make wonderful gifts for extended family members and loved ones. I’m always happy to help you fill the gaps in your Christmas stockings with beautiful printed portraits of your family!

Addressing Common Concerns

“What if my kids don’t cooperate?”

As I said, children are not robots and that’s OK. I always encourage parents to pause and simply play with their kids if they’re feeling nervous or shy. Our little ones want nothing more than to have our undivided attention and are at their happiest when their whole family, whatever that looks like for them, is playing together. That's where the magic happens and I’ll be there with my camera!

Sometimes it’s just a waiting game. In my experience piling on the pressure only adds to the child’s unease. I’ll often stop the shoot and ask them if they’d like to hold my heavy camera and take a picture of me! It’s all about distraction, fun and faith. Trust the process and remember that the most unexpected moments can often make the best photos.

“Can we bring our pets?”

Absolutely! Pets are part of the family and I welcome them in photography sessions. All I advise is that we mix things up so there is opportunity to put your pet front and centre and then to focus exclusively on the humans in your family too. If you’d like to bring your pet to your family shoot, please let me know in advance so I can plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Booking a family photography session is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Trust me, relax and enjoy the process. The result will be beautiful images that capture the essence of your family in this season of life.

Ready to book your session? Contact me today to start planning your perfect family photography experience!