My tips for preparing your kids for a photoshoot
Kids have a vast spectrum of personalities, quirks and it’s so fun bringing them out in photos! I love letting kids have the freedom to run a little wild in shoots, as a photographer I’m never too bothered by kid’s behaviour. Whether they are supercharged or are a little timid and extremely camera shy.

As a Mum though, I completely understand during a photo shoot, things can get STRESSFUL!
I get it. You’ve organised the photographer, picked everyone’s outfits, dragged your partner along (which is sometimes the hardest part of all). You want everything to run smoothly and the photos to turn out amazing. This isn’t an unachievable dream! Here are some of my quick tips I’ve learned over the years to make shoots go smoothly.
1. Snacks & Treats
Snacks are a brilliant way to keep kids happy and motivated during a photoshoot. Plus a special treat that your kids love can be offered as a reward for after the photoshoot. A great way to get your kids to loosely comply with all of the things they’re asked to do during the shoot.
2. Schedule
Make sure everyone gets a good night sleep the night before and eats a good meal before hand. There is nothing more unwilling to cooperate than a tired child expect maybe a hangry husband. Ain’t nobody got time for that!
3. Outfits
Dress with the weather in mind, make sure they are comfortable or can strip off layers if need be. Also if your child hates what they are wearing it will definitely show in photos. A photo of a happy kid in simple clothing is far better than a screaming kid in fancy clothes. Pick shoes that are easy to walk in, this goes for the parents as well!
4. Bring a backup outfit
Packing another set of clothes for the kids if they happen to get wet, dirty or muddy is strongly advised. Great to change in to for the drive home!
5. Prepare your family
It’s a good idea to prepare everyone in your family (partner included) with little references to let them know whats happening. I tell my clients to tell their kids something like “We’ll be hanging out with our friend Rosie on the weekend!” or “We’re going to the park for an adventure.” The main thing is to keep it casual and light hearted.
6. My biggest tip – Let the smile come naturally!
This is a big one! Fight your instincts and resist the temptation to say things like “Cheese” or “Smile” to your kids. The best way to get a ‘real smile’ is to actually make your child laugh or smile. So instead of focusing on how they look, be a bit silly and make things fun! The best images come out of natural moments of a family enjoying themselves in their element.
7. Have fun!
Your kids will pick up your mood. So with that in mind just relax and have fun! At the end of the day there is nothing to stress about, so rather than concentrating on taking nice photos – focus on creating beautiful memories.
PACK LIST FOR YOUR SESSION
– Change of clothes for each kid
-Snacks, treats, water bottles and whatever bribe/motivator you have decided on for your shoot
-Towels
-A blanket if your kids don’t like sitting on the grass, just don’t bring anything fugly
-Any special items you’d like your child to be photographed with
-Walkable shoes
-Wipes for the grubs
-Layers if the weather is a bit chilly
My family sessions are relaxed, fun and never go off the air of being posed. I give your kids the freedom to run a little wild and be themselves. My warm and genuine nature softens awkward smiles and encourages lots of laughter. Don’t be surprised if you catch me with a big goofy smile behind the lens, giggling along with you!
Family sessions are usually held at locations on the Central Coast, from beaches to beautiful spots in nature. We can discuss together, where you would like your session to be held.