How to Prepare for a Fun Family Portrait Session: Tips for Kids and Choosing the Perfect Location

When it comes to family photography, a well-prepared session can make a world of difference, especially when you’re including young children. The goal is to capture those genuine, joyful moments, and one of the best ways to do this is to ensure everyone is relaxed, happy, and in the right mindset. Here’s a guide to preparing for a fun family portrait session, including tips on how to involve your kids and choose a location that reflects your family’s unique bond.

1. Choose a Meaningful Location

Picking the right location is key to capturing authentic moments. A great location doesn't have to have beautiful scenery but it must resonate with your family’s personality and interests.

For example, if your family loves spending weekends at the beach, it might be the perfect place to hold your portrait session. Think about where your family feels most at ease and happy—whether it’s a local park, a favourite hiking spot, or even your own backyard. These familiar, personal locations bring out the best in your children, allowing them to relax and be themselves.

2. Prepare Your Children: Make Sure They’re Ready for Fun

The key to getting great photos of kids is ensuring they’re well-prepared and in a positive mood. Here are some tips to get your little ones excited and ready for a fun family session:

1. Make Sure They’re Well-Fed

Kids who are hungry can get cranky fast, so a pre-session meal is important. A relaxed, fun family dinner before your photoshoot can help ensure your kids are comfortable and well-fed. Consider something that’s easy and enjoyable for everyone. For example, how about a pizza party on the beach before the session? This gives the kids something to look forward to and can also serve as a bonding moment for the whole family.

• Tip: Enjoy your dinner in a spare shirt, that way you don't get pizza sauce running down your son's shirt!

• Tip: Bring along some snacks to the shoot just in case. A few healthy treats or some of their favourite snacks can help keep spirits high and energy levels up during the session.

  
  

2. Keep the Mood Light and Fun

One of the best ways to get great photos of kids is by keeping the atmosphere relaxed and playful. Let your kids know that the session will be fun, and they can even be involved in the process. Kids love being part of the planning, so ask them what kind of games or activities they’d like to do during the session (such as running races on the beach or jumping in the waves).

Fun Tip: Bring along a small toy or prop that your kids love, like a beach ball, a favourite stuffed animal, or a bubble wand. These simple items can help keep their attention engaged and make the experience more fun, these can also add interest into your images.

3. Bring a Change of Clothes (Just in Case)

Kids love to run around, and they’re bound to get a little messy or wet, especially if you're at the beach. Bring a change of clothes so kids can just be themselves. I am prone to a spontaneous run into the ocean so having some back up clothes allows you to be that extra care-free.

3. Outfit Planning: Comfortable & Coordinated, Not Perfect

For the best results, you want your family to feel comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing. Consider planning your outfits around the location to help create a cohesive look without being too “matchy-matchy.” For example, light, airy fabrics in neutral tones or soft pastels work beautifully on the beach, but make sure everyone is comfortable enough to play, jump, and run without any restrictions.

A Few Tips for Outfit Choices:

• Choose clothes that reflect your family’s style but are practical for movement, especially for kids.

• Bring layers or jackets if the weather might change unexpectedly.

• Avoid overly bold patterns or logos that could distract from the overall image. Instead, go for soft colours or complementary tones that work with the natural surroundings.

4. Let Go of Perfection

Remember, family portraits are about capturing your family’s connection, joy, and personality. Don’t worry about achieving the “perfect” pose or having everything go according to plan. The best shots often come from spontaneous moments of laughter and play, so embrace the chaos and let the session unfold naturally.

5. Trust Your Photographer

Lastly, trust your photographer to guide you through the session and capture those special moments. A professional photographer is experienced in working with families and children, and they know how to create an enjoyable and relaxed environment. They’ll direct you without making it feel like a formal, stiff photoshoot.

Conclusion:

By choosing the right location, preparing your kids for fun, and making sure everyone’s well-fed and comfortable, you’ll set the stage for a memorable and stress-free family portrait session. Whether you’re playing at the beach, enjoying a picnic, or having a family adventure, these moments will be beautifully captured, showcasing the love and joy that define your family.

Ready to plan your family photoshoot? Get in touch to schedule your session, and let’s create some unforgettable memories together!