How to prepare for your family photography session: Tips for parents

Family photography sessions are one of the most rewarding things you can do — and one of the most chaotic if you're not prepared! A little planning makes an enormous difference to how relaxed everyone feels, and how beautiful the results are.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

The quality of natural light makes or breaks outdoor photography. For family sessions, I recommend:

• ◆Golden Hour (1–2 hours before sunset): Warm, flattering light. Creates beautiful, dreamy images. Best for outdoor sessions.
• ◆Morning (8–10am): Soft, gentle light. Great for young children who are at their best early in the day.
• ◆Overcast days: Cloudy skies act as a giant soft box — flattering, even light with no harsh shadows. Great for all skin tones.

Avoid midday in summer — harsh overhead light creates unflattering shadows and squinting.

2. What to Wear: A Practical Guide

Clothing choices make a huge difference. Here's what works best:

• ◆Coordinate, don't match: Choose 2–3 complementary colours rather than identical outfits. Soft neutrals, earthy tones, and muted pastels work beautifully.
• ◆Layers and texture: Cardigans, denim jackets, light scarves — these add visual interest and keep everyone warm.
• ◆Avoid busy patterns: Bold stripes and large logos draw the eye away from faces.
• ◆Comfort first: Especially for children. If they're uncomfortable, they'll let you know!
• ◆Dress for the location: Wellies and casual layers for a countryside session. Smarter looks for a village or park setting.

3. Managing Children (Without Losing Your Mind)

The most common worry parents have is: "What if the kids don't cooperate?" Here's the truth — a little chaos is completely normal, and it often leads to the most joyful, genuine images.

That said, here's how to set everyone up for success:

• Schedule around nap times. Avoid booking sessions during your child's usual nap window.
• Bring snacks. A hungry toddler is an unhappy toddler. Snacks are your best friend.
• Bring a favourite toy or prop. Something familiar helps children feel more at ease in a new environment.
• Don't force smiles. Let children play and interact naturally — I'll capture the real moments.
• Keep it low-key. Don't build it up too much with children — a relaxed "we're going for a walk and having photos" is all you need.

4. Choosing Your Location

England is full of beautiful settings for family photography. Some of my favourites:

• Woodland and bluebell woods (magical in spring)
• English country parks with open meadows
• Beaches and coastal paths
• Your own garden (relaxed and personal)
• Your home — for a lifestyle session that captures everyday life

Not sure where to go? Tell me your area and I'll suggest the perfect location.

5. On the Day: Tips for the Session Itself

• Arrive on time — rushing increases stress for everyone
• Let the children explore and get comfortable with the environment first
• Forget the camera is there — talk to each other, play, and interact naturally
• Trust your photographer — we'll guide you gently, you don't need to know what to do
• Have fun! The more relaxed you are, the better the photos will be