5 Things to Bring to Your Family Photography Session
(And none of them fit in a bag)
Motherhood photoshoot in Thorpe Bay seafront
When preparing for a family photography session, we normally think of what to wear, what to bring but also anxiously hoping the kids’ nap times will fit somewhere in between. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best sessions (and outcomes) aren’t the ones where everything looks perfect – they’re the ones where everyone simply shows up and are willing to participate.
Here are 5 essential things to really bring with you to your next family photoshoot.
Family photoshoot in Apton Hall gardens in Rochford, Essex
How a playful attitude will lead to natural family photos
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a family photographer, it’s that fun always wins over forced or boring. Kids don’t want to sit still for long and I don’t want them to either.
When you come into your session with a sense of play, the little people feel it, you feel it. Everyone relaxes, we laugh and those are the moments we want to capture: the joy, silly faces and giggles in between. The same principle applies for families with teens or adults – the sense of play and lightheartedness just look slightly different.
Play invites real connection and gives your gallery life and movement.
Family photoshoot at Lions Creek, Wallasea, near Rochford
Why patience creates the best family photo experience
Family sessions are rarely straightforward. Someone might need a snack, a nappy change or a quiet moment away from the camera. Instead of stressing over time or behaviours, I encourage patience.
The beauty of lifestyle family photography is that it finds inspiration in real life – pauses, real feelings and all. When you allow space for things to unfold without pressure or rush, that’s often when the most meaningful images are made.
As part of family photoshoot in Belfairs Woods, Leigh on Sea
Choose connection over perfect poses in family portraits
The goal isn’t a flawless photo, it’s a meaningful one. You don’t need to be camera-ready or have matching outfits to get beautiful family photos. It is the love and closeness you share and want to capture.
Connection matters more than a curated pose. So hug your little ones, hold your partner’s hand, share a look or an inside joke. Those are the moments you’ll want to remember and they photograph beautifully.
Family photoshoot on the beach in Westcliff on Sea
The power of presence during your family photography session
You blocked your diary for this, remember? Being fully present during your session makes all the difference. Let go of the to-do list, the self-conscious thoughts, the urge to control every detail and maybe take only 1 phone with you for emergencies. And just be in the moment with your family. How do you like spending fun time together? What makes them laugh?
That energy translates into photos you’ll feel – not just see – when you look back on them years from now.
As part of family photo session on Two Tree Island in Leigh on Sea
Trust in your photographer's abilities and desire to capture you at your best
Last but not least to bring to your session is trust. You’ve chosen your photographer for their approach and style – so lean into that and let go of what you think it should look like.
It’s not your job to know how to pose or lead the session. A good lifestyle photographer will prompt and guide you gently, know when to step in and move on or let the moment breathe. The more you trust, the more relaxed and genuine your images will feel.
If you loved these tips, let’s turn them into your real moments. I’m booking family sessions all year round – get in touch here to start planning yours.
As part of family photoshoot in Priory Park in Southend on Sea
Your family photography session is about telling your family story – the messy, loving, beautiful story you’re living right now. If you bring these five things with you, the result won’t just be beautiful images.
It will be a visual memory of those moments at this stage of your family life together.
Loved the tips? Let’s turn them into your real moments. I’m booking family photoshoots in Leigh on Sea and surrounding areas in Essex all year round so get in touch here to start planning yours.
Fatherhood photoshoot at Belfairs Woods in Leigh on Sea