How to Prepare Kids (and Partners!) for a Stress-Free Family Photo Session
Let’s be honest—getting the whole family ready for photos can feel like a big task. Between making sure the kids behave, choosing outfits, and convincing your partner that yes, family photos are important, it’s easy to feel a little stressed before your session.
But here’s the good news—family photos don’t have to be stressful! With the right mindset and a little preparation, your session can be fun, relaxed, and filled with genuine moments that truly capture your family’s love.
As a family photographer in Bend, Oregon, I’ve worked with plenty of wiggly toddlers, hesitant teens, and camera-shy partners. Here are my best tips for getting everyone on board for a smooth, stress-free experience!
1. Prepare Kids with Positivity
If you tell kids, “You have to take pictures and be on your best behavior,” they might groan or feel like it’s a chore. Instead, set the tone for fun!
✨ How to Get Kids Excited:
✔ Tell them we’re going on an adventure! ("We're going to play games and explore a new place together!")
✔ Let them know we’ll be doing fun activities, not just standing still for pictures.
✔ Show them photos from past sessions (if applicable) so they know what to expect.
✔ Let them bring a favorite toy or small treat for comfort if needed.
💡 Bonus Tip: If your little one has a favorite song or game, let me know—I love incorporating things they love to keep them engaged!
2. Get Your Partner On Board
Let’s be real—not all partners love taking photos. But instead of dragging them into the session kicking and screaming (metaphorically, of course), try getting them involved in a positive way.
✨ How to Win Over a Reluctant Partner:
✔ Let them know it’s not about perfect poses—it’s about genuine, candid moments.
✔ Remind them that these photos are for your family to cherish for years.
✔ Tell them, “It’s just an hour of fun, and I promise I won’t make you do it again for a while!”
✔ Show them past family photos or inspiration for what the session will feel like.
✔ Bribery works! Plan a fun post-session treat (like dinner or drinks) to make it a fun date.
💡 Bonus Tip: Encourage your partner to interact naturally—whether it’s playing with the kids, hugging you, or making silly faces. The more relaxed they are, the better the photos will be!
3. Choose Outfits in Advance (and Keep Them Comfortable!)
One of the most stressful parts of family photos? The outfits. Instead of scrambling at the last minute, plan ahead!
✨ Outfit Tips for a Stress-Free Session:
✔ Pick clothing that’s comfortable! If kids (or partners) are uncomfortable, they’ll let you know.
✔ Choose coordinating, not matching outfits. Neutral or earthy tones work well in any season!
✔ Make sure outfits are weather-appropriate for Central Oregon (layers are always a good idea).
✔ Have kids try on their outfits beforehand to make sure they’re comfy and distraction-free.
✔ Pack extras (snacks, wipes, a hairbrush) in case of spills or last-minute touch-ups.
💡 Bonus Tip: Let your kids have some say in their outfit—if they feel good in what they’re wearing, they’ll be more confident in front of the camera!
I LOVE Old Navy in Bend, Oregon, to pick out kids' clothing for photoshoots. It’s well-priced and so cute!
4. Keep Expectations Realistic (and Embrace the Chaos!)
Let’s be honest—kids will be wiggly, silly, and unpredictable during your session. But that’s part of the magic! The best family photos aren’t about everyone standing still and smiling perfectly—they’re about capturing the love, the laughter, and the real moments that make your family special.
✨ Mindset Shift for a Stress-Free Session:
✔ Don’t stress if your child won’t sit still—that’s totally normal! Movement makes for great photos.
✔ If a meltdown happens, we’ll take a break and go with the flow.
✔ Focus on interacting with each other instead of forcing smiles—candid moments are the best!
✔ Laugh, cuddle, play, and enjoy the moment. I’ll capture the magic as it happens!
💡 Bonus Tip: If your kids are feeling overwhelmed, a quick snuggle break or silly game can work wonders in resetting the mood!
5. Pack Snacks (But Use Them Wisely!)
A hungry child (or partner!) is not a happy one. Packing some simple, mess-free snacks can help keep energy levels up without interfering with the session.
✨ Best Snacks for a Photo Session:
✔ Small, bite-sized snacks (grapes, crackers, cheese cubes)
✔ Non-sticky, non-staining treats (avoid chocolate or messy snacks)
✔ A favorite treat to use as a reward if needed (like fruit snacks or a lollipop)
💡 Bonus Tip: Avoid snacks until after the session if possible—otherwise, we may end up with sticky fingers or snack time taking over the shoot!
6. Most Importantly—Have Fun!
Family photos should be a joyful experience, not a stressful one. The best photos happen when families are relaxed, playful, and just enjoying being together.
✨ Final Tips for a Stress-Free Session:
✔ Take a deep breath—this is about capturing love, not perfection!
✔ Encourage playfulness and natural interactions.
✔ Trust me to guide the session—I’ll keep things moving and fun!
✔ Enjoy the moment with your family—these are the memories you’ll cherish for years.
Ready for a Fun & Stress-Free Family Session?
If you’re looking for beautiful, authentic family photos in Bend, Sunriver, Sisters, or beyond, I’d love to capture your story! Let’s make this an easy, joyful experience for everyone.
📅 Let’s chat and book your session today! Contact me here.