Top 5 Questions I Get Asked About My Family Photography Sessions

If you’re anything like most of the families I work with (and maybe a little like me too!), you’ve probably got a million things on your plate. So when it comes to booking a family photo session, it’s totally normal to have a few questions and maybe even a few nerves.

Let’s take a deep breath together and have a chat about the most common questions I get asked about my family photography sessions. Whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back for updated photos as the kids grow, these answers will hopefully give you a little clarity and a whole lot of excitement.

1. “What should we wear?”

Ahh yes, the big one!

I promise, you don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe. The key is coordination, not matching. Think timeless and simple, outfits that would’ve looked lovely five years ago, and will still look beautiful five years from now.

I usually recommend sticking with neutral tones and soft colours that work well together. Avoid logos, cartoon prints, and neon colours (they date quickly and can throw colour casts onto your skin). Think linen shirts, cosy knits, flowy dresses with a bit of movement (especially if you’re also doing a film), denim, earthy tones, and simple patterns like stripes or florals.

Layers and textures photograph beautifully, so a chunky cardigan, a soft scarf, or a bit of lace can add depth without being distracting. And yes, you can absolutely bring a spare jumper or jacket for a quick outfit change or if the weather turns!

I’ve also got a full What to Wear Guide I send to all my families, so you’re not left wondering.

2. “Where do the sessions take place?”

I offer a handful of carefully selected locations depending on the look and feel you’re going for, whether that’s a sun-drenched field, a peaceful orchard, or the beach at golden hour. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to guide you through what will work best based on your style, your kids’ ages, and the time of year.

The golden hour (about an hour before sunset) is my favourite time to shoot, the light is soft, warm, and magical.

Prefer to stay close to home? Backyard and in-home sessions are also beautiful, especially if your family feels most at ease in your own space. The important thing is that you feel comfortable, the connection is what we’re really capturing.

3. “What if my kids don’t cooperate?”

Honestly? This is probably the most common worry I hear… and I get it. As a mum myself, I know that kids are unpredictable. But please don’t stress, I actually expect a little chaos (and I welcome it!).

My sessions are relaxed and playful. I don’t ask anyone to sit still and smile at the camera for an hour (actually, I rarely ask anyone to look at the camera, if at all). Instead, I use prompts and play, we’ll run, snuggle, tell silly jokes, pick flowers, explore. I focus on real connection, not perfection.

And if someone needs a snack break or a cuddle? We stop. There’s no pressure to perform, just come as you are, and I’ll take care of the rest.

4. “Do you do those posed family portraits?”

Short answer: Not really.

Long answer: I do take a few group shots with everyone together, but my real focus is capturing the feeling of your family, the way your youngest leans into you when they’re shy, the way your partner still sneaks a look at you when you’re not watching, the way your kids laugh when they’re upside down on your shoulders.

I guide you into natural moments with gentle prompts, not stiff poses. I’ll suggest you walk hand-in-hand, snuggle up on a picnic rug, or chase each other through the grass, and in those in-between moments, that’s where the magic happens.

5. “Do you offer both photos and video?”

Yes, and this is honestly where the magic happens.

Alongside photography, I offer short Family Films set to music, little moving portraits of your family doing what they do best: laughing, cuddling, exploring, and just being together. There’s no sound recording, no pressure to perform, just natural, beautiful moments captured in motion.

Photos are perfect for printing and framing, but video adds another layer. It lets you feel the way your daughter’s dress floated as she ran barefoot through the grass, the way your son flung his arms around your neck mid-giggle, or the way your partner looked at you when you weren’t watching.

It’s one of those things you don’t know you’ll treasure so much… until you have it. And then you can’t stop watching.

Ready to book or want to ask something else?

I know booking a session can feel like a big step, especially if it’s been a while (or forever) since you’ve had professional photos taken. But I promise you, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

I’m here to walk you through it all, from choosing outfits to finding the perfect location, and making sure your kids feel relaxed and happy.

If you’re ready to lock in a date or ask another question, get in touch here. I’d love to chat.

And remember, these photos aren’t about being perfect.

They’re about capturing love, connection, and the people who matter most. That’s what makes them priceless.