How to Have the Best Family Photo Session, Birmingham, Alabama Family Photographer
Booking a family photo session is exciting — and sometimes a little intimidating. I can’t tell you how many families arrive with frowns on their faces from the stress of just getting out the door on picture day. (Trust me, I’ve been there with my own family too!)
Gladly and maybe proudly - I can tell you that when people (husbands and kids included) leave my photo sessions they are full of smiles! Often times the kids tell me they aren’t ready to leave!
So, what’s the secret?
Here’s the prep list I share with all my families:
Preparation, Preparation, Preparation!
Spend a few extra minutes in the days leading up to your shoot laying out everyone’s outfits. That includes underwear, socks, shoes, and accessories!
Make sure everything is clean and ironed.
Keep it in a safe place where it won’t get wrinkled or trampled.
A little prep goes a long way in keeping the morning stress-free.
Timing
Plan to leave earlier than you think you need to. Arriving a few minutes early means you’ll be relaxed when the session starts instead of rushing in.
FOOD!
This is a big one — make sure everyone (including you and your spouse) has had a little snack before you arrive. Hangry people rarely feel like smiling, and a quick snack beforehand can make all the difference.
The Car Ride
Think of the drive as part of the session:
Play your family’s favorite songs.
Grab a favorite drink from a coffee shop along the way.
Ask everyone to share one thing they really like about another family member.
By the time you pull up, the mood is already set.
Arrival
Keep that momentum going. Compliment your kids and spouse as they get out of the car — a little encouragement works wonders.
If the ride didn’t go as planned, don’t stress. Take a minute to reset the mood. It’s never too late to shift the atmosphere.
Let the Photographer Lead
I promise, I know how to work with all kinds of personalities — kids, teens, and even reluctant dads. The best thing you can do is step back and let me take the lead. Too many voices giving directions can overwhelm kids and create frustration.
Change Your Expectations of “Perfect”
Social media makes it look like every photo is flawless, but what you don’t see are the toddlers rolling in the grass or the teens giving me side-eye between shots.
Perfection isn’t the goal. Connection is.
When you book your family session, keep two goals in mind:
Spend sweet, uninterrupted time with your family.
Let your photographer capture the moments you share.
With that mindset, you’ll be able to relax, have fun, and actually enjoy your session.
I can’t wait to work with your family!
Call or text: 205. 470. 7195
Email: kristie @ kristieallenphotography .com
👉 Be sure to check out my post on How to Choose a Location for Your Photo Session.