Tips for a Smooth Family Session

Scheduling a family session can feel daunting with small children. Often we wonder if it will be the day our easy-going toddler will throw their first fit. There is pressure to perform in a specific timeframe and children always feel what their parents are feeling. Being a Washington DC Family Photographer has shown me the basic steps to make your family session go well. I hope you find these five Tips for a Smooth Family Session helpful during your next photo session in DC.

1. It is so important to prioritize your sleep. I know this can be hard when you are a parent to small babies and toddlers but getting your children to bed early the night before can be so helpful. If your children have new outfits for the session lay them next to their bed as an incentive to go to sleep. When they wake up the next morning they will be edited to try on their new clothes.

2. Scheduling an early morning session has many benefits. This is important if your children are happier in the morning. Most kiddos are. I love early morning sessions because the city is so much quieter, there is plenty of parking and traffic is lighter. Your children haven’t had the chance to get dirty yet after playing outdoors or eating lunch, it’s just easier first thing in the morning.

3. Prepping your kids and husband can make such an impact on attitudes. Talking about your upcoming session is so helpful for children. When they know what to expect and who they are going to meet, it gives them confidence. Tell them your photographers name. When a child is confident they are much more likely to have a fun time. Going over what to expect with your partner is so important too. Tell them the location, when you need to leave the house and how long the session will typically take. Being clear is helpful for everyone.

4. Make your session fun and promise a snack afterwards. If you choose a morning session then promise donuts or breakfast afterwards. St. Anslem and Donut Run are some of our favorites. If you have an afternoon or evening family session go for ice cream as a family treat when you are finished. Thomas Sweet and The Creamery at Union Market are two of our favorites in DC.

5. Keep smiling through the chaos even if things feel out of control. Children mirror their parents example and even if there are moments of chaos it’s important to stay calm and keep smiling. And things just happen when children are involved. Once time a little boy fell into a rose bush and another session a child got stung by a bee. Both times parents comforted their child and were able to rally for a bit longer.

Let me know if these Tips for a Smooth Family Session help your family during your next photo session.