Family Session Prep Guide
For real families, real moments, and really good photos
Let's Keep It Real
When I photograph your family, my goal isn’t perfection — it’s connection. I want your photos to feel like you — the way you laugh together, the way your kids hold your hand, the way you lean in close without even thinking about it. Styling plays a big role in setting the tone for your session, but it should never feel like one more thing to stress about.
You don’t need to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe. I promise you already have beautiful pieces in your closet that will photograph perfectly — we just need to put them together thoughtfully. And that’s where I come in.
You don’t need to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe. I promise you already have beautiful pieces in your closet that will photograph perfectly — we just need to put them together thoughtfully. And that’s where I come in.
Comfort & Confidence First
When you feel good, you look good. And when you look good and feel good? That’s where the magic happens. Choose clothes you can move in, hug in, and sit on the ground in. If you’re fidgeting with your outfit or worried about a button popping, it’s going to distract you from the moment. Think:
- Soft, breathable fabrics
- Clothes that fit well (not too tight, not too baggy)
- Pieces you can be yourself in
Coordinating, Not Matching
Gone are the days of everyone in identical white shirts and jeans (unless that’s truly your vibe — then rock it!). Instead, think in terms of coordinating colors and complimentary textures.
Pick 2–3 main colors and sprinkle them through everyone’s outfits in different ways. Add in layers and accessories to give depth and interest. This allows everyone to express their personality while still looking beautifully cohesive.
Pick 2–3 main colors and sprinkle them through everyone’s outfits in different ways. Add in layers and accessories to give depth and interest. This allows everyone to express their personality while still looking beautifully cohesive.
Colors & Textures That Shine
Natural, earthy, and muted tones tend to photograph best — think sage greens, rusts, creams, navy, mustard, blush, dusty blues, and deep burgundy. Avoid super bright neons, busy logos, or big text that can pull the focus away from your faces.
Textures like knits, linen, corduroy, and denim add dimension to your photos and look amazing in natural light.
Textures like knits, linen, corduroy, and denim add dimension to your photos and look amazing in natural light.
Bring Your Personality
Your photos should feel like you, not like a clothing ad. If your little one insists on wearing their cowboy boots, let them. If your teen loves their favorite beanie, it should make the cut. These little personal touches tell your story.
A Few Quick Tips
- Lay out everyone’s outfits together before the session — you’ll instantly see what works and what doesn’t.
- Shoes matter! Opt for clean, neutral, or coordinating footwear.
- Consider layers — jackets, scarves, and hats can be worn for part of the session and removed for variety.
- If in doubt, text me a picture — I love helping clients pull everything together.
Most Importantly...
Don’t overthink it. The most beautiful photos happen when you’re present with your family, not worrying about whether your belt matches your shoes.
We’ll laugh, we’ll play, and we’ll create images you’ll treasure for years to come — all while you look and feel your best.
We’ll laugh, we’ll play, and we’ll create images you’ll treasure for years to come — all while you look and feel your best.
