• Fuel the fun: Ensure everyone is well-rested and fed before the shoot to avoid meltdowns (big and small!).

• Practice your smiles. For some kids, this may be the first time you're asking them to smile for the camera. Show them how to smile, practice with them, and don't be afraid to bribe them! Most families I've photographed usually end the session with grabbing some ice cream. And during the session, as they listen, they can get a smaller treat to keep them encouraged!

• Remind the kids, (and your husband) why having family photos is so important! My goal during the session is to make this a pleasant experience, and I am not here to torture anyone! Enjoying the photoshoot is just as important to me than it is to give you timeless photos!

• You’ll see me arrive with a big smile — because I’m just as excited as you are! Throughout our time together, I’ll be capturing the candid moments, the laughter, and all those in-between shots that make your family’s story unique.

• I will usually arrive early to our sessions so I can make sure it isn't too crowded for us.

• You’ll notice I’m especially focused on the kids — they bring the magic! Keeping them engaged allows for those natural, genuine smiles.​

• I’ll likely have you moving around quite a bit — even the slightest shift in angle or light can make a world of difference in the final photos. Don’t worry, it’s all part of creating something special.​

• I’m always on the move, finding the best angles and light, but don’t worry — we’re never in a rush. The goal is to create a relaxed environment where your family can be themselves, and I can capture the moments you’ll cherish forever.

• Looking at the camera: Yes, you will look and smile for a photo, but thats only part of why you're here! We want to capture genuine, candid smiles as well.

• Capture candid moments: Let your photographer catch those real, unscripted interactions that happen when you’re just being yourselves — the playful energy, the shared laughter, and the little gestures that tell your family’s unique story. 

• Incorporate activities: Get into the moment by engaging in something your family loves, like playing a game, building a sandcastle, or exploring the environment. These activities bring out natural smiles and connection, making for the best photos!

• Relax and breath! The key to capturing true joy is to relax, be yourselves, and soak in the experience. Positivity always shines through in the photos.

• "But where do I put my hands?!" I get this question all the time! If you don't have a pocket, one of my go-to tips is to simply hold someone else’s hand, place your hand on a shoulder, or gently rest it on an arm. It’s all about creating natural connections.
  
  By following these tips and embracing the fun, your session will result in timeless photos full of genuine moments and memories you’ll treasure for years.

Here's a checklist of essential items to ensure your family photoshoot runs smoothly and captures those precious moments:​

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1. Snacks and water: Keep everyone's energy levels up and avoid meltdowns, especially for younger family members. I usually will bring a dry easy snack to keep the kids encouraged through the session, but promising them ice cream at the end of the session is usually very helpful! And if you're a couple, promising your spouse an ice cream at the end of the session also proves effective! Nobody likes it when someone is hangry!

2. Wet wipes and tissues: Always handy for spills, runny noses, or unexpected messes.

3. If it is hot, hand held fans can be cute in photos, especially for couples. 

4. Favorite toy: Familiar items can help children feel more comfortable and relaxed, leading to natural smiles and genuine moments. Choose 1 ! Sometimes I will hold the doll to encourage the kids to look at the camera. Sometimes they prefer to hold the dolly themselves, so whoever you choose, make sure they're just as photogenic as you!

5. When it comes to families with younger kids, I usually will bring bubbles or some other kid of easy and photogenic prop!