As a working parent, your schedule is packed with deadlines, school drop-offs, meal prep, and endless to-do lists. Adding a family photo session to that mix might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! At Ashley K Photography, I understand how precious your time is, and I’m here to make your family photo experience as stress-free as possible.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your session and make it a relaxed, fun experience for everyone.
1. Plan Ahead but Keep It Simple
Planning ahead can alleviate much of the stress leading up to your session, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend hours coordinating. Instead, keep it simple.
- Outfits: Choose clothing that’s comfortable and reflects your family’s style. Neutrals, soft colors, and simple patterns work well for a timeless look. If deciding on outfits is too overwhelming, check out my client closet—I offer curated options that save you the hassle of outfit shopping.
- Timing: Book your session at a time that works best for your kids, ideally when they’re well-rested and fed. If your child is happiest in the morning, we’ll aim for a morning session. If late afternoon works best, we’ll plan around that.
2. Prep Your Kids with a Positive Mindset
Kids feed off their parents’ energy, so approach the session as a fun family outing instead of a chore. Here are a few ways to prepare your little ones:
- Talk It Up: In the days leading up to the session, talk about how exciting it will be to have some special family time. Let them know they’ll get to run, play, and maybe even have a treat afterward.
- Pack Snacks: If you have little ones, bring some of their favorite snacks to keep them happy and fueled during the session. We can take breaks as needed!
- Bring a Favorite Toy: A beloved stuffed animal or toy can help kids feel comfortable and give them something familiar to hold during the session. Plus, these little details make for adorable, personalized photos.
3. Embrace Imperfection: Candid Moments are the Best
I get it—family photos can seem daunting when you’re juggling work and family life. But the beauty of a lifestyle session is that it’s not about everyone looking perfect.
- Focus on Connection: My approach is all about capturing the real, beautiful connections between family members. If your kids are running around, laughing, or hugging you out of nowhere, that’s exactly what I want to capture! These spontaneous moments are often the most heartfelt and genuine.
- Go With the Flow: If your child has a meltdown or things don’t go as planned, don’t worry! I’m used to working with kids, and I know how to create fun distractions or embrace the chaos to capture those magical moments in between.
4. Choose a Relaxed Location
Choosing a location that suits your family’s vibe is key to a smooth session. You don’t need to travel far or find the most “Instagram-worthy” spot. The best location is one where your family feels comfortable.
- Local Parks or Your Own Backyard: Think about places your kids love to explore. Parks with open fields, or even your own backyard, can be the perfect backdrop. They provide space for kids to run and play, and you won’t have to worry about traveling too far.
- Natural Light: Outdoor locations with natural light are ideal for creating warm, authentic photos. I’ll guide you to spots with the best lighting, so you don’t have to worry about anything technical—just focus on having fun with your family.
5. Trust the Process and Enjoy the Moment
The best advice I can give? Relax and trust the process. I’m here to make this easy for you, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy your time together. Remember, this session isn’t just about taking photos—it’s about creating memories.
- Let Go of Expectations: Life with kids is unpredictable, and that’s okay! Don’t worry about trying to make everything perfect. I’ll capture the moments that matter most—the laughter, the hugs, the silly faces.
- Have Fun: The more you enjoy yourselves, the better your photos will be. When parents are relaxed and present, it sets the tone for a playful and joyful session. Your genuine smiles and laughter will shine through in every shot.
Ready for a Stress-Free Family Session?
At Ashley K Photography, I specialize in capturing the beauty in the chaos of family life. Whether it’s a few giggles or a full-blown dance party, I’m here to make your session fun and memorable. Busy parents, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Let’s create something beautiful together, even in the midst of the craziness.
Ready to book your stress-free family photo session? Reach out today, and let’s make it happen!
