Let's Prepare for your Session


Booking a family photoshoot is an exciting experience, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. From choosing outfits to making sure the kids are happy, there’s plenty to consider. The good news? With a little planning, your session can be relaxed, fun, and full of authentic, beautiful moments. Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for your family photoshoot.


Pick the Perfect Outfits


What you wear plays a big part in how your photos feel—whether soft and earthy, light and natural, or a little more bold and playful. I always recommend choosing colours and textures that complement your location and reflect your family’s vibe, without feeling too matchy or overthought.


Need some inspiration? I’ve put together a helpful styling guide with colour palettes, outfit ideas, and tips to make choosing your outfits simple and stress-free.


Visit my What To Wear blog for my full styling guide.


Choose a location


The right location makes all the difference in how your photos feel. Whether it’s running barefoot through golden fields, exploring pine forests, or staying cosy at home, I’ll help you find the perfect spot that reflects your family’s vibe.


Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—I’ve got you. After you book, I’ll send you a full styling and location guide packed with my favourite Canberra spots, helpful tips, and inspiration to make your session feel easy and true to you.


Visit my Locations blog for my full  guide.

Get the Kids (and Partner!) Ready


A great mindset leads to a smooth session:


Set Expectations: Let your kids know it’s a fun experience, like an adventure! Keep the vibe lighthearted and avoid putting pressure on them.


Stay Flexible: Perfection isn’t the goal—natural, candid moments often create the most memorable photos.


Pack Snacks & Take Breaks: A small treat can go a long way in keeping energy levels up.


Prep Your Partner: If your partner isn’t usually excited about photos, give them a heads-up about what to expect and encourage them to simply have fun.


Choose the Best Time


Golden Hour – My Favourite

Golden hour (just before sunset) is pure magic. The light is soft, warm, and gives your photos that dreamy glow. It’s my favourite time to capture natural, heartfelt moments—when the sunlight catches the laughter, cuddles, and quiet pauses in the most beautiful way.


Morning Sessions – Perfect for Little Ones

Morning light is soft and lovely, and little ones are usually happiest after a good breakfast. It’s the perfect time to capture their energy, smiles, and playfulness before the day gets too busy.


Midday – Not Always Ideal Outdoors

Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows, so I generally avoid outdoor sessions at this time. If we need to shoot then, I’ll find shade to soften the light.


In-Home Sessions – Midday Works Best

While midday light is tricky outside, it can be perfect indoors. Each home is different, but bright rooms come alive around midday and early afternoon.


• North-facing rooms: soft light all day

• East-facing rooms: brightest in the morning

• West-facing rooms: golden in the late afternoon

• South-facing rooms: brightest midday


Babies are often most settled at this time too, making it ideal for calm, light-filled in-home sessions.

Preparing Your home


Since your home is the backdrop for your newborn session, a little prep can make a big difference. But don’t stress—it doesn’t have to be perfect! The goal is to create a cozy, light-filled space that feels like you.


Find the Best Light: Light is everything in photography. Take note of when your rooms get the most beautiful, natural light—usually in the morning or early afternoon. If possible, book your session around that time. Open up blinds and curtains to let in as much soft, natural light as possible.


Keep It Simple: A quick tidy-up in the areas we’ll be shooting (main bedroom, nursery, and living room) is plenty. No need for a deep clean—just tuck away clutter like phone chargers, tissue boxes, or anything that might be distracting in photos.


White Bed Sheets for a Clean, Timeless Look: A simple switch to white or light-colored bed sheets can make a huge impact. They reflect natural light beautifully and create a soft, fresh feel that keeps the focus on your family.


Add Cozy Touches: Think soft blankets, textured cushions, and neutral-toned decor. A lived-in, relaxed space photographs beautifully, so don’t worry if things aren’t perfect.


Warm & Comfortable: Make sure the house is warm enough for baby—especially if we’re doing any photos with minimal clothing or wraps. If you have pets, decide whether you’d like them included in some shots or if they should be in a separate space.


A little preparation goes a long way in making your in-home session feel relaxed, natural, and true to your family’s story.≈

 

Pack the Essentials


Here are a few key items I recommend bringing along to ensure a successful photoshoot with kids:

Snacks & Water: Keeping energy levels up is key for little ones.

Baby Wipes/Burping Rag: These are lifesavers for quick clean-ups after spills or messy hands.

A Change of Clothes: Kids can be unpredictable, so having an extra outfit on hand is always a good idea.

A Favourite Toy or Blanket: This not only provides comfort but also makes for cute props in the photos.

Sunscreen: Essential for outdoor sessions to keep everyone protected.

Relax & Enjoy the Moment


The best photos happen when families are simply being themselves. Keep things stress-free by:

Embracing the Chaos: Kids will be kids! Let them run, jump, and be playful—it makes for the best memories.


Depending on the type of session, I will provide different levels of guidance. For maternity and couple sessions, I’ll offer plenty of prompts and suggestions to create natural, intimate moments. For family sessions with little ones, I love capturing relaxed, authentic interactions, so I’ll gently guide you while encouraging play, movement, and connection.


Focusing on Connecting, Not Posing: Hold hands, cuddle, laugh, and enjoy your time together.


Rest assured - I know handing your baby over to someone new can feel big. Please know I’m trained in CPR, emergency life support, and children’s first aid, and I hold a current WWVP check. Safety and wellbeing are always at the heart of my sessions.

After Your Session


Once your session is complete, I’ll get to work editing and delivering your images. While you wait, here are a couple of things to consider:


Planning How to Display Your Photos: Think about how you want to showcase your family’s memories. Whether it’s albums, wall art, or prints, having a plan can help you enjoy those moments even more.


Sharing Your Experience: If you love your photos, leaving a review or referring friends can make a big difference for small businesses like mine. Your support means the world!


By following these simple steps, your family photoshoot can be a fun and memorable experience. The most important thing? Show up ready to make memories with your loved ones—I can’t wait to capture your story!