As a mama myself, trust me when I say: I get it. I am also a wife to a husband who dreads pictures, a bonus mama to a teen who automatically hates any shirt I picked (hello opinions), and my 3 year-old, what even are clothes? So trust me when I say, I have been there too. I know getting ready for a family photoshoot feels pretty daunting.

It might feel a little overwhelming when you hand over your retainer payment for your session. There’s a lot of questions floating around in your head! I’m here to answer all of your questions and help you feel prepared and ready for your upcoming family session. Your only job is to show up ready and to love on your people! I’ve got the rest.

What To Expect For Your Family Photoshoot

Before your family session

1. Pick your package.
2. Questionnaire to get to know you, your kiddos and your vision.
3. Pick your location (in-home or studio).
4. Receive session reminder & final invoice.

Day of your family session

TIP#1: Pull together outfits & accessories (you may even want to do this the night before).

TIP #2: If you have small children, it typically works best if you arrive early and change their outfits then. It never fails that a child always gets messy when you want them to stay clean.

TIP #3: I know it’s easier said then done, but give yourself plenty of time to get ready!

TIP #4: It’s a great idea to pack a bag and include any snacks/treats to help your kiddos through the session. For the little ones, a favorite toy or lovey should do the trick. Last, if you want to include any special in your vision, feel free to bring it with you.

TIP #5: Show up, have fun, play games, & snuggle.

*Sigh of relief* YOU DID IT!

After your family session

1. Sneak Peeks will be delivered via text within 5 days of your session. Feel free to share these to social media and tag me! 
2. Your Proof gallery will be delivered within 1 week after your session.
3. Make your final selections, add on any extra must haves.
4. Your Final gallery will be delivered within 2 weeks after you make your final selections.

Getting Ready For Your Family Session

Treat your session like a special occasion. This is so much more than just pictures. This is a chance to make memories together and celebrate your families unique story! Schedule hair, make up, and nail appointments. If you don’t want to splurge on those things, make sure you have a #selfcareday and give yourself a manicure.

Tips for Dad/Men

You know how your person has been grumbling about this idea since you first mentioned it? Let’s make this more enjoyable for him, shall we? First of all, share the tips I have mentioned. They probably haven’t been scrolling Instagram for inspiration so they likely don’t know that it’s okay to laugh, play, and that they don’t have to be looking at the camera for every photo.

Prepping the Wild Ones for Your Family Photoshoot

TIP#1: This is going to sound weird, but hear me out. Don’t parenting during your session. Let me be the one to tell your kids what to do. You get to focus on loving and snuggling and laughing. I cannot stress this enough. Kids are loud, they are messy, they are all over the place & that’s what kids are supposed to do! I promise you, kids are cute always, no matter how much chaos they bring. You know what’s not as cute? The look on your faces when trying to get them to sit still, etc.
The caveat is, if they are in immediate danger you can for sure step in and be the parent again.

TIP #2: We are going to avoid “cheese” and anything else that forces smiles. I always tell my own kids that the most important part of this experience is that they have so much fun. I want real, genuine smiles. Above all, I want this to be fun for the entire family.

TIP #3: I want your photos to capture the essence of your family. Each and every family that steps in front of my camera is unique. I have my go to prompts and activities to get you moving, but the beautiful thing is no 2 sessions are going to look the same. Don’t be afraid to just let loose & love on your people!

TIP #4: I mean, we all work at our best when we know there is a reward, am I right? As a family, choose a treat or something you all love to do together as an incentive.

TIP #5: Small kids can’t fake it. They feel what they feel. I will not force them into anything they are not comfortable with. But don’t worry, I’m pretty good and making kids feel seen and welcome. I’m also not afraid to get really, really silly.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS YOUR TURN AROUND TIME?
You can expect sneak peeks within 3-5 days of your session & your proof gallery within 7 days of your session. Your final gallery will come about 2 weeks after your final selections are in.

HOW DO I MAKE MY PROOF GALLERY SELECTIONS?
It’s super simple. I send you an online viewing gallery where you simply select your favorites by “hearting” them.

I’M NOT PHOTOGENIC CAN YOU HELP?YES! Believe it or not, very few of my clients would consider themselves photogenic. It’s my job to make you look ah-mazing.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?
We will reschedule for a date that works best for both of us. This Texas weather is so unpredictable.

WHAT TYPE OF POSES DO YOU DO? CAN I SEND YOU PINTEREST INSPIRATION?I always grab a few posed pictures that you can throw on a Christmas card. However, I love when a session has a more relaxed and candid feel. I am always open to new ideas, visions, etc and would love to see your inspo if you have some.

CAN WE BRING OUR PET?Absolutely yes, always. Please just remember to pick up after them and leave no trace.

WHAT IF MY CHILDREN DON’T COOPERATE?
Your child isn’t special in that regard. I’ve seen it all, and I’m used to it. Here’s the important thing… don’t let it get to you. I can get photos of any wild child, but I cannot get a flattering photo of a mad and sweaty mom.

Ready to book your family photoshoot?
Let’s chat!