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How to Prepare for a Stress-Free Family Photo Session this Fall
Scheduling your Fall family photo session should feel simple and exciting… not overwhelming. Yet as a mom, I know that’s not always the case! You might find yourself quickly worrying about what everyone will wear, whether or not your little ones will smile, and how the heck you’re going to get everyone looking and feeling their best at the same time!
It’s a lot, I get it. But… *deep breaths* I got you. You don’t need perfection for gorgeous fall family photos. With a little preparation and a photographer who knows how to make your family photo session fun (aka ME!) your photo session will be stress-free, meaningful, and full of love.
Here are my favorite tips as a York, PA Family Photographer to help you prepare for your fall family photos this year!
1. Choose Outfits That Feel Comfortable & Coordinated
Your outfits have a HUGE impact on the overall outcome of your photos. The colors and styles set the tone, but they don’t need to be complicated.
Think of a color palette to pull from (it’s a great idea to think about the colors that will look best with your home decor and furniture!). Neutrals are always a solid choice. Muted jewel tones can photograph beautifully. Avoid bright neon colors, overly bold patterns, and brand logos/graphics. These are all distractions in family photos.
I typically recommend starting with your outfit, mama. Choose something you feel beautiful and comfortable in. I love to incorporate movement in your session so choosing a fabric that flows and lets you move will have the best results. From there, choose the rest of the family’s outfits in colors that compliment yours – do NOT match!
Matching outfits may seem like a fun idea in your head, but it actually really distracts from the main subject of the photos – YOUR FAMILY!
Pro Tip: Lay out your outfits on the bed to see how they all look together. If you’re shopping for new items, you can paste pictures from the websites into a blank project in Canva and place them next to each other.
When you book a York, PA fall family photo session with me, you’ll also get a style guide and consultation time with me to discuss your outfit choices as well!
2. Consider Your Family’s Routines
It’s always a good idea to schedule your family photo session when your little ones (let’s be honest – and dad) are most likely to be in their best moods. Do they perk up after a nap? Are they happy and energetic after a meal?
Try to schedule your session at a time where you can still prioritize naps and meal times! With that said, kids are often more flexible than we give them credit for. You may need to consider rearranging your day a bit so nap time can be a little earlier or later, but it will be worth it.
It’s also a great idea to have a snack right before your session! Full bellies are happy bellies and no one wants to smile for pictures when they are hangry. Bring a clean snack to munch on during the session as well! Cheerios or puffs are great motivators for toddlers.
3. Help Your Kids to Mentally Prepare
I personally love to know all of the details about where I’m going and what I’ll be doing – especially when it’s something new. Kids are often the same way! The trick is keeping it light and exciting. Instead of saying “We have to go take family pictures”, frame it as a fun adventure or family outing! “We are going to put on pretty outfits and go explore a new trail – and a photographer is going to join us!”
And listen, I am all for bribery – but try to keep any rewards small and low pressure! Sometimes too much can backfire, but a simple reward or something to look forward to after your photo session can be a great way to celebrate (and also bring out those genuine smiles when talking about it during the session too!)
4. Let Go of Perfection
This one is so important. Do not start stressing if your kids are fussy or things don’t seem to be going exactly as planned. Kids pick up on your stress and worrying will only make things worse. Think of your session as one hour of just letting the kids be kids no matter what. I promise we’ve all been there and I am NOT going to judge you if your kid is more interested in finding bugs than saying “cheese”.
My goal isn’t perfect smiles and stiff posing. As long as you look happy and relaxed, your kids will likely join you. I want to capture your family as you are right now. The snuggles, tickles, (and maybe a little chaos) all tell the story of your family’s love. Truly, some of my favorite images come from those in-between moments.
5. Trust Your Photographer
Communicate ahead of time to discuss your vision and then once you arrive, your job is done! When your session starts, I’ll guide you and your family with gentle direction, find the best light, and document those little moments that showcase your family’s love and connection. All you need to do is relax, be present with each other, and enjoy the moment.
A Final Note of Encouragement
Family photos should not be stressful. With the right preparation and mindset they will feel like a fun memory-making experience. Years from now you won’t remember whether or not your toddler cried or if your dinner was an hour early. You’ll remember the joy, the laughter, and the love captured in those images.
Are you ready to make stress-free, joy-filled memories with your family? I’d love to capture your story. Inquire about your Fall Family Photos today.
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