Preparing your family for your photoshoot is a great way to make sure the session runs as smoothly as possible and most importantly, that they have fun! 

First off though, let’s prepare ourselves.  Let’s think about the times when we have the most fun as a family.  It’s not when we are trying to control a situation and make our kids do things they don’t want to do (hellooooo tantrums!), but it’s when they get to be their true selves, explore new things, play imaginative games and just be adventurous.  Going into our session together, let’s follow the kids leads and keep spirits high.  Drop all expectations and enjoy the time together.

Now!  With that being said, there are some things we can do to help in preparing your kids for your family photos and make things run that little bit smoother.

Firstly, keep them fed. 

If we are doing a sunset or afternoon session, do dinner before-hand.  You can always top them up with snacks afterwards if they have worked up an appetite (I’m a huge fan of second dinner) but keeping them from getting hungry (read: hangry) will mean more smiles and more willingness to play which makes for great family photos.

Secondly, keep them warm. 

If it’s a cooler day, keep them dressed warmly.  Dresses and shorts look super cute, but not if they are hugging themselves to keep warm or preferring to sit in the car.  Cardigans, jackets, chino pants, tights etc are all very cute and fashionable options for your family photoshoot.  Using layers and different textures also photograph really well! (more on dressing for your family photoshoot under ‘Blogs’ on my website https://www.mirandaadiephotography.com)

Thirdly, talk to them about it in the week leading up to the session. 

Letting them know that they will be meeting me for a play and some photos will help them mentally prepare in their own minds.  If they have done a photoshoot before, show them the old photos, talk to them about the experience and let them get excited for it again.  If it’s their first time, tell them we will play games and that they can choose which game.  They can bring their favourite toys or collect sticks and leaves when we get there – anything that sparks a light in them, we can do!

Lately I’ve found that letting the kids take a couple of photos on my camera themselves and showing them what they look like really gets them excited and willing to participate in the session.  I also initiate games and have certain prompts up my sleeve to help out with creating a relaxed and comfortable environment. 

We get the best photos when you are actively preparing your kids for your family photoshoot and your kids get to be unapologetically themselves so follow their lead and have fun!