How to Prepare for Your Family Photo Session with Young Kids

So, you’ve booked a family photo session—yay! That’s a big first step, and now you might be wondering, how do I actually get my kids ready for this? Whether this is your first time wrangling toddlers into coordinated outfits or you're a seasoned pro with a few sessions under your belt, prepping for a photo session with young kids can still feel a little overwhelming. But I’ve got you.

As a Minneapolis family photographer with 15 years of experience (and a mom myself), I’ve seen it all—meltdowns over shoes, snack negotiations, and moments of unexpected magic. This post is packed with family photo session tips Minneapolis families actually need. From what to wear to what to bring, here’s how to set your crew up for a session that’s fun, relaxed, and full of genuine smiles.

More Information on Family Sessions

Dress for the Photos You Want to See on Your Walls

Let’s talk outfits—because what your family wears can really tie the whole session together. Good news: you don’t have to stress.

First, if you want to skip the wardrobe planning altogether, I’ve got a curated studio wardrobe available for moms, dads, and kids under five. That includes beautifully neutral dresses, soft shirts, and timeless options that photograph like a dream. Many families love this option because it takes the guesswork out of “What do we wear?”

But if you’d rather dress your crew in your own clothes, here’s a little guidance:

Stick with soft, neutral colors or muted earth tones. They keep the focus on your faces and emotions—not bold logos or neon tees.
Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color. Instead, aim for coordinating rather than matching.
Think about textures and layers—cozy knits, flowy fabrics, denim jackets, or linen shirts can add subtle visual interest.
For little kids, make sure outfits fit well and aren’t itchy or restrictive (we want happy, comfortable kiddos!).

If you’re still unsure, I also send out a monthly style guide with outfit inspiration to help take the pressure off.

Plan Your Photo Session Time Around Your Kids’ Needs

Here’s the thing—young kids aren’t exactly known for syncing up with ideal lighting conditions. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make it work!

Evening sessions (hello, dreamy golden light) are typically scheduled about two hours before sunset—which, in the summer, can mean a later-than-usual start time. If that’s the case, the best thing you can do is feed your kids a full dinner before the session. Yep, before. It’s a game changer.

A well-fed kid is a happy kid, and trying to hold off on dinner until after photos usually backfires. No one wants hangry toddlers—or photos of kids mid-snack. Eating beforehand helps everyone show up relaxed, full, and ready to go.

A few more scheduling tips:

If your little one normally crashes by 7 p.m., don’t book a session that starts at 6:45 p.m. We can find a time that fits.
Try to keep the day low-key. Avoid planning too many activities before your session so your child isn’t already running on empty.
Give yourself plenty of time to get ready without feeling rushed. Trust me—it makes a huge difference in your overall experience.

The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed your kids will be. And that’s when we get those real, joyful moments you’re going to love.

Investment Information

Pack Smart (But Don’t Overpack)

Here’s the thing about outdoor photo sessions: we start shooting the moment we hit the trail, the prairie, or wherever we’re meeting. That means anything you bring is either in your hands, on your body, or in your photos. So let’s keep it simple.

You really don’t need much—promise. In fact, less is better.

Here’s what’s worth bringing (and what to leave behind):

Lovey or favorite blanket: Totally fine if it comforts your child and you’re okay with it being in the photos (or getting dirty). Wooden toys or aesthetically pleasing items are great.
Backup outfit: Always a good idea, but it can stay in the car unless we need it.
Leave the snacks: If you had dinner you don't need snacks. We can find other ways to "bribe" the kids. No one wants a photo mid chew. And if you don't have snacks you won't need wipes either.

A few things to skip:

Strollers full of stuff: If it’s not part of the photo, it shouldn’t come with us. Simple as that. I want images of you holding your child so strollers just get in the way. And it really messes with the momentum of the session when we have to stop put the stroller out of the way grab the kid and then act like your having a lovely day.
Phones: Leave them in the car! I know it feels weird, but I’ll carry your keys. Phones in pockets show in every photo, and I won’t be photoshopping them out later.
Anything in your pockets: This one’s especially for the dads. Empty ‘em. Phones, wallets, sunglasses—all of it. Let’s keep the focus on your family, not the rectangle outline in your jeans.

The goal is to travel light so you can be present and enjoy the session—because when you’re not juggling gear or checking your screen, you’re free to just be with your family. And those are the photos you’ll really love.

If your little one is feeling unsure about having their photo taken, reading a fun book together ahead of time can help. Here’s a great list of picture day-themed books for kids to ease nerves and get them excited for their big moment in front of the camera.

Set Expectations (For Everyone, Including Yourself)

Before the session, have a quick family huddle. Let your kids know you’re going somewhere fun and that there might be a little running, hugging, and playing involved. They don’t need to “smile for the camera”—they just need to be themselves.

And parents? Give yourself a little grace too.

If your toddler refuses to look at the camera or your preschooler wants to hold a stick in every photo, that’s totally normal. I promise we’ll still get beautiful images. My approach is child-led and play-focused. It’s not about perfection—it’s about connection.

These moments you’re documenting? They’re not just for Instagram. They’re for your walls, your albums, and your memory bank.

These family photo session tips Minneapolis families come to rely on are about more than prep—they’re about letting go a little and trusting that real joy shows up in the in-between moments.

At the end of the day, preparing for your family photo session with young kids doesn’t have to feel like a production. A little planning—with the right outfits, a realistic schedule, and a light, intentional approach—goes a long way. When you show up relaxed and ready to just enjoy your people, that’s when the magic happens.

Still have questions? Reach out—I’m happy to help. And if you’re already on the calendar, I can’t wait to photograph your beautiful, unpredictable, joy-filled crew.

Have any tried-and-true tips of your own for prepping kids? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s worked for your family!

Michele is a Minneapolis-based family photographer with over 15 years of experience capturing real, joy-filled moments for families across the Twin Cities. Known for her relaxed, child-led approach and her ability to create beautiful images even in the midst of toddler chaos, Michele makes family sessions feel easy and enjoyable. Whether you're chasing golden light in a field or wrangling siblings on a sidewalk, she’s all about helping families look and feel their best—without the stress.

GET IN TOUCH

0 Comments

Previous Post Next Post

How to Prepare for Your Family Photo Session with Young Kids

Dress for the Photos You Want to See on Your Walls

Plan Your Photo Session Time Around Your Kids’ Needs

Pack Smart (But Don’t Overpack)

Set Expectations (For Everyone, Including Yourself)

Archive