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How to prep your kids for a fun, stress free photoshoot


Because happy kids = beautiful, natural memories!


As a lifestyle photographer (and a parent myself!), I know firsthand how intimidating it can feel to prep your little ones for a family photo session. Will they smile? Will they cooperate? Will they suddenly decide they hate pants? (Spoiler alert: sometimes, yes.) But here’s the good news—your session doesn't need to be stiff, forced, or stressful. Remember, lifestyle photography is all about embracing real connection, playful moments, and the beautiful chaos of family life.


Here's a few of my tips on how to set your kids—and yourself up for success:


1. Set Expectations—In Kid Language: Talk to your kids ahead of time about what to expect in simple, positive terms: “We’re going to hang out in the park and play while someone takes our pictures!”, “We’ll be doing lots of cuddling, tickling, and maybe even a silly dance.” Framing the session as a fun activity instead of a formal event helps relieve pressure.


2. Choose Comfortable, Kid-Friendly Outfits: While coordinating outfits is great, comfort comes first—especially for little ones. If they’re itchy, cold, or restricted, it’ll show in the photos (and in their mood).

Clients will receive a style guide by me to assist when deciding what outfit combinations I recommend. Let them try on their clothes the day before and move around in them. Bonus tip: avoid clothing with large logos or neon colors, which can distract from your beautiful faces. *For studio sessions, I provide optional clothing pieces up to 3t


3. Feed Them First (and Bring Snacks!): Hungry kids = grumpy kids. Plan your session after a good meal or snack and bring extras just in case. Think dry, non-messy snacks (like crackers or fruit snacks) that won't stain hands or clothes mid-shoot.


4. Bring a Favorite Toy or Comfort Item: Whether it’s a tiny stuffed bunny or a blanket, familiar objects can help kids feel safe and relaxed. Plus, they can add a personal, meaningful touch to your images.

And if we’re lucky, that little lovey might even make a sweet cameo!


5. Let Them Be Themselves: My BIG one: don’t stress if your child doesn’t smile on command. Real expressions—giggles, cuddles, pouts, and even curiosity—are all part of the story. I’ll guide your family through gentle prompts and games to spark natural connection. You don’t need to “perform”—you just need to show up and be present.


7. Trust the Process: Some kids warm up quickly, while others need time to observe. That’s totally okay. I always build buffer time into sessions, especially with young children, so we can move at their pace.

The best photos happen when everyone is relaxed, not rushed.


Final Thoughts: The best family photos don’t come from perfectly behaved kids—they come from real moments of love and connection. So breathe, have fun, and trust that we’ll capture something beautiful, no matter how wiggly or wild the day feels.


Need help planning your next session? I’d love to chat! Reach out through my BOOKING page and let's get started!



Why choose lifestyle photography




When it comes to life’s most meaningful moments—whether it’s welcoming a new baby, celebrating an engagement, or simply capturing the everyday magic of your family—preserving memories and choosing the right type of photography plays a powerful role. Of course, not all photography styles are created equal. If you’re looking for images that feel genuine, emotional, and full of life, it may be time to consider a lifestyle photographer over a traditional one. Here’s why I love it:


  • 1. Real Moments Over Posed Perfection: Traditional photography often relies on posed, studio-style shots where everyone looks at the camera and smiles. While there’s nothing wrong with that, lifestyle photography takes a different approach. It focuses on authentic interactions—like the way your child giggles when you tickle their feet, or the quiet joy of a couple sharing coffee in their kitchen. Lifestyle photographers like myself aim to tell your story as it naturally unfolds, making every photo a candid glimpse into your real life.


  • 2. Comfort Over Formality: Let’s face it—posing for stiff, traditional portraits can be uncomfortable, especially for kids or people who don’t like being in front of the camera. Lifestyle sessions are often shot in familiar environments, like my cozy studio that mimics a room in a home, a favorite park, or a cozy café...this helps everyone relax and act naturally. Comfort translates into more genuine expressions and interactions—no forced smiles, just the real you!


  • 3. Storytelling That Resonates: I don't want to just take pictures; I aim to craft a visual narrative. Rather than a series of disjointed poses, your photos come together as a cohesive story—your story. This storytelling approach is perfect for families, couples, and even brands that want to convey personality, emotion, and connection in a way that traditional photography just doesn’t quite capture.


  • 4. Timeless Over Trendy: While traditional portraits may feel formal or even outdated over time, lifestyle photography tends to age more gracefully. Because it focuses on genuine moments and interactions, it has a timeless quality. Your future self—and future generations—will treasure those images not just for how they look, but for how they feel.


So... who is this for? ANYONE! Families and people who want to capture everyday joy, not just forced smiles, couples who prefer laughter and intimacy over stiff poses, new parents who want to remember the messy, beautiful reality of life with a newborn, small businesses and creatives who want authentic branding photos that reflect their personality. In the end, it all comes down to what kind of memories you want to keep. If you want your photos to go beyond the surface—if you want them to reflect the love, laughter, chaos, and calm that make your life uniquely yours—then a lifestyle photography is the perfect choice.


Because life isn’t posed. And your photos shouldn’t be either