Many people feel a little anxious ahead of a family portrait session. Especially when you have young kids, it’s hard to know what to expect and how the day will go. But there are a few things you can do to prepare that will help lessen the stress level on photo day. Follow these three steps to a relaxed outdoor family portrait session.

1) Have a conversation as a family before the session.

Before your session, have a family chat. Use this opportunity to educate everyone on what you envision for your family portraits. Let them know that everyone will get a chance to have their photo taken, and the kiddos will even get to be silly for my camera. You can also hype everyone up for the fun that we'll have during your session. And you'll plan to do something fun as a family afterward, like go out for ice cream or eat at your favorite restaurant.

2) Choose your outfits at least a week in advance.

The simplest way to avoid stress on the day of your session is to make your outfit selections at least a week before. First, check out my blog post on What to Wear for Family Portraits. Then, use all the tips I share to choose your outfits. Finally, on the day before your session, ensure everything is clean, pressed, and ready to wear to make getting ready as smooth as possible.

3) Plan on hugging, laughing, and playing.

Don't worry about finding the perfect poses to recreate at your session. Plan on hugging, laughing and playing together instead. This is the best way to make everyone feel comfortable and the best way for me to photograph your family in your natural spirit. I'll coach you on how to pose and prompt you on what to do. Spoiler alert: it involves hugging, laughing, and playing.

Now that we’re heading into spring, book your outdoor family portrait session, and let’s capture those fun memories together!