Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX. Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits. See more family photos in the gallery. Contact me to book your family portrait today!
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Planning a family portrait session can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re juggling busy schedules and small children. But capturing these precious moments shouldn’t be a stressful experience. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free family portrait session that everyone enjoys. Here’s how to plan ahead and create the perfect setting for beautiful, natural portraits.
Start with a Pre-Shoot Consultation
The key to a successful family portrait session begins long before you step in front of the camera. A consultation with your photographer helps set expectations, clarify your vision, and answer any questions you may have about the process. During this time, you can:
- Discuss your family’s personality and preferences.
- Go over wardrobe choices, making sure everyone’s outfits complement one another.
- Plan the session location—whether it’s in a studio, your home, or an outdoor setting.
- Decide on the best time of day for your shoot, ideally when your children are well-rested.
A detailed consultation not only ensures that everyone is on the same page, but it also reduces stress for parents because you’re well-prepared for the big day.
Tips for Managing Small Children During Family Portraits
Parents know that keeping children calm and cooperative during a family photo session can be challenging. However, with a little preparation, your session can be easy and fun for everyone. Here are some tips to help:
1. Time It Right
Timing is everything when it comes to a successful family portrait session. Schedule the shoot at a time when your children are most likely to be in a good mood. For younger children, this could be after their nap or following a snack. Avoid scheduling sessions during nap time or right before meals to reduce the risk of crankiness.
2. Bring Familiar Comfort Items
To keep your little ones happy and engaged, bring along their favorite toy, blanket, or comfort item. Not only can these items calm them if they get fussy, but they can also be incorporated into the photos for a personal touch.
3. Keep it Fun and Playful
Instead of forcing stiff poses, let your children move, play, and be themselves during the session. Photographers experienced with family portraits know how to capture natural, candid moments that showcase your family’s unique dynamic. If your child has a lot of energy, use it to your advantage by incorporating movement into the shoot—whether it’s playing with a ball or having them chase bubbles.
4. Be Patient and Flexible
Children can be unpredictable, and that’s okay. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to capture joyful moments. Don’t worry if your child isn’t cooperating right away; a good photographer will know how to adapt to their mood and create an enjoyable, stress-free environment.
5. Stay Positive
Your attitude can greatly influence your child’s behavior. If you remain calm, upbeat, and encouraging, your child will likely respond in kind. Make the session a fun family activity rather than a task, and your photos will reflect that.
Prioritizing Safety During Family Portrait Sessions
Safety should always be top of mind during any family photo session, especially when small children are involved. Here’s how you and your photographer can ensure a safe and stress-free environment:
Safe Locations: Whether the shoot is outdoors or indoors, choose locations that are safe for children to explore. Avoid areas with heavy traffic, uneven ground, or steep drops. It’s also important to steer clear of locations near large bodies of water, such as lakes or ponds, unless they are securely fenced or your children are being closely supervised at all times. Safety comes first, and choosing the right location ensures peace of mind.
Secure Props and Equipment: If props are being used, make sure they are child-friendly and securely positioned. Photographers should also ensure their equipment, such as lighting stands or backdrops, are safely set up and out of reach of curious little hands.
Comfortable Poses: When working with babies or toddlers, photographers should focus on poses that are natural and comfortable for them. No child should be forced into an awkward or unsafe pose for the sake of a shot.
Conclusion: Making Family Portraits Stress-Free
Planning ahead, communicating with your photographer, and taking steps to prepare your children will go a long way in creating a smooth and enjoyable family portrait session. With these tips in mind, you’ll walk away with beautiful photos that capture your family’s essence without the stress.
If you’re ready to book your stress-free family portraits, reach out to us today for a consultation. For more information on how to plan and prepare, grab a copy of my Family Welcome Guide HERE. We’re here to help you create lasting memories with ease!
Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX. Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits. See more family photos in the gallery. Contact me to book your family portrait today!
