5 Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Family Photoshoot: Capture Candid Moments You’ll Cherish Forever
If you’re a parent booking family photos with me, there’s one question you’ve probably already asked yourself:
“How do I get my kids to cooperate during our family photos?”
Here’s the truth, as a photographer with over a decade of experience (and as a mom myself):
You don’t.
And that’s totally okay.
Most kids don’t love sitting still for perfectly posed photos (and honestly, neither do most parents.) That’s why the best family sessions aren’t the ones where everyone’s smiling perfectly at the camera. They’re the ones where families embrace the chaos, laugh through the wild moments, and lean into the genuine love that holds them together.
When you book a session with me, we’re not just chasing perfect pictures. We’re capturing real memories that are tiny hands grabbing sticks, quiet cuddles with mom, silly dance moves, and loud belly laughs. These are the photos that mean something years down the road.
So how do you get the most out of your session? Whether you’re booking photos in Long Beach, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, or surrounding OC and LA areas, these tips will help you relax, show up authentically, and walk away with beautiful images that feel like you.
1. Keep It Fun and Easygoing
This isn’t school picture day. It’s a chance to enjoy some time together as a family—whether we’re shooting near the Seal Beach Pier, Rancho Los Alamitos, or one of my favorite little hidden parks in Long Beach. Let your kids run, play, and be their goofy selves. I’ll guide and gently direct when needed, but the best moments come when everyone’s relaxed and just enjoying the time together.
2. Embrace Imperfections
Perfection isn’t the goal—authenticity is! Let the kids be kids. If they’re being silly or a little rambunctious, that’s perfectly fine. Some of the best photos come from those unexpected, candid moments. Try not to stress about everyone looking perfect; focus on enjoying the time together. If your toddler wants to wear mismatched socks or your kiddo gets dirt on their outfit mid-session—it’s fine. Actually, it’s more than fine. That’s life. And that’s what we’re celebrating in your photos. My goal is to get at least one traditional smiling photo (I know the grandparents always love that one) but that may not always be easy (and I’m not above a head swap or two). When you trust me, that makes everything just a little bit easier. Kids really feed off energy so if they feel you getting irritated or frustrated, it tends to make the whole session a little more tense for everyone and if we need a little dance break or game of tag to ease that tension, then that’s what we’ll do. :)
3. Prepare, but Be Flexible
It's great to plan outfits and have an idea of poses you like, but flexibility is key, so once the session starts, let’s let things unfold naturally. They way a shy kiddo rests their head on dads shoulder because they may be a little nervous at first in front of the new lady with a camera or the little sister who maybe likes the spotlight a little too much may not be the poses you had in mind when we started but they sure do tend to be some favorites at the end. My job is to guide you through different setups that work best for your family, but if something doesn’t go as planned, we’ll roll with it and find the beauty in the spontaneous.
4. Bring Comfort Items
If your children have a favorite toy or blanket that makes them feel secure, bring it along. These items can be used in the photos for added personal touch or simply kept nearby to help ease any anxiety. I’ve had quite a few families who feel the need to remove these items just to get a nice photo but I like to remind my families that its ok to leave these personal items in sometimes. If it means we get a sweet smile from a kid even though they are holding a stuffy that has maybe been through the was a time too many, then I’ll take it. Its way easier than trying to console a hysterical kid who just wants their buddy at all times. You’ll look back on that photo years from now when old ratty stuffy is long forgotten in a memory box in the attic and smile remembering how sweet and tiny your little one was. Happy kids make for happy photos!
5. Trust the Process
This is what I do. I’ve photographed hundreds of families across Southern California, and I always find the rhythm—even when it starts out a little chaotic. We’ll keep things light, playful, and easy. You can trust that I’ll capture your family in a way that feels authentic and full of joy.
6. Bonus Tip: Focus on the Feeling, Not the Pose
The goal isn’t a “perfect” photo—it’s a photo that makes you feel something. That look your child gives you. That genuine laugh when your partner makes a silly face. That quiet moment when everyone just slows down for a second. These are the memories you’ll treasure. Let yourself be present, and I’ll take care of the rest.
By keeping these tips in mind, your family can enjoy a stress-free, fun photoshoot that results in beautiful, candid images reflecting your true personalities.