Sometimes families avoid having a family photo session done because they have young kids. And let’s be real, it can seriously be SO stressful! But, with that being said, family photos are the best way to document your family in time! It is well worth the extra effort to get professional photos taken that you can look back on for years to come. That’s why I’m going to give you some tips on how to create a fun-filled session with your young kiddos while making it as stress-free as possible!

Photography By Brogan | Montana Photographer

1 – Set Guidelines Prior to The Session, But Don’t Have Too High of Expectations

Before your family photo session, make sure you talk to your kids about what will be going on, and what you expect from them. Let them know how it’s going to be SO much fun, but also set some guidelines for what you expect out of the session! And if you’re thinking, “Yeah right, my kids aren’t going to listen!” Then the next tip is sure to be very helpful!

2 – Go Out For a Treat After Your Family Photo Session!

Let the kids look forward to something super special after your family photo session! Whether that’s ice cream, a lollipop, or even a playdate at the park! I’ve noticed this really helps the kiddos cooperate because they know they’ll be getting a treat afterward! You can also use this as motivation for them to take those photos they don’t really want to take. Want some cute pictures of siblings hugging each other? A rewarded treat can go a long way in getting them to cooperate. Plus, it will make them excited about the session and will likely make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. And maybe you’ll still have an ounce of sanity left afterward ( totally kidding 😉 )

3 – Fully Rested Kiddos & Full Bellies!

THIS IS HUGE! If you can, schedule your family photo session after your regular nap time or when you know your child is the happiest! It’s also important to make sure they have a full belly to keep them satisfied. I’ve also seen moms bring snacks to give their kids throughout the session to keep their kiddos engaged and happy! What’s that saying? You’re not you when you’re hungry! Keeping your kids full and rested will surely keep the big feelings to a minimum and keep anyone from getting too hangry!

4 – Bring a Change of Clothes For Your Family Photo Session!

Having a backup set of clothes in your car for everyone is essential! We all know those dreaded blowouts, spills, or even baby throw up happens at the worst possible times. Preparation is the key to a smooth family photo session! Additionally, you can arrive early and change your kids before your session that way you don’t have to worry about them getting messy beforehand.

5 – Let Them Be Kids During Your Family Photo Session!

MY FAVORITE PART! The special thing about having a session with your kids is that YOU get to be in the photos! If you can tell it just isn’t working out the way you expected it to, embrace what makes them happy!!! Find bugs with them, tickle them, kiss the tops of their nose, and dance with them! I love capturing candid, in the moment shots that truly represent you and your kids and the season of life you are in! At the end of the day, making sure you have memories to look back on is what’s most important!

Book Your Own Family Photo Session With Me & Let’s Create Some Memories!

My end goal in writing this blog is to show you that a family photo session with younger children doesn’t have to be stressful! There are several things you can do to prepare and make your family session go smoothly! And guess what? Even if it doesn’t go exactly as you planned, THAT’S OK! Let’s capture your family while your kids are still young, and document memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. I promise you that you’ll have so many regret’s if you let these fleeting moments pass by. We all know time is moving too fast!

Ready to book your family photo session? You can learn more about me here, and if you think I’d be the perfect photographer to capture your family then inquire with me here! In the meantime, you can see more family sessions on my portfolio for inspiration!