Tips for Your Family Portrait Session

Let us capture your natural character!

Our goal is to capture beautiful memories for you that will be cherished for generations. Here are a few tips that will help you look your best and get the most from your portrait session.

If you have any questions about this or anything else related to your session, please let us know.

Start With the End in Mind

One of the most helpful things to do before your session is picture where these images will live in your real life. A gallery wall? An album for the grandparents? Framed prints? When we know your end goals, we can photograph with a little more purpose in mind.

Visit our product catalog to spark ideas and start imagining how your images could come to life in your home.

View the Catalog

Tips on What to Wear in Family Pictures

  • Comfort over Perfection

    If someone feels itchy, restricted, or self-conscious, it will show. This is especially true for kids. Choose pieces that fit well and allow everyone to move freely as well as relax easily.

  • Coordinate, don't Match

    Instead of identical outfits, choose colors that work well together. Sticking within a warm palette (reds, browns, yellows, oranges) or cool palette (blues, greens, purples, pinks) usually photographs beautifully.

  • Solids and Simple Patterns

    In general, solid colors photograph most cleanly. Try to avoid clothing with large words, bold stripes, or busy plaids that can distract from faces.

  • Keep Layers Simple

    Light layers like cardigans, denim jackets, or textured pieces can add visual interest without overwhelming the photo. Avoid bulky outerwear unless it’s part of the look you truly want.

  • Make Sure it Fits

    Avoid clothing that is overly baggy or too tight, especially for adults and older kids. Well-fitting clothes photograph more polished and timeless.

  • Prep Your Outfits

    If items wrinkle easily, give them a quick press before your session. Wrinkles are much harder to fix later than you might think.

Hair, Makeup and Grooming Tips for Camera-Ready Confidence

Hair, makeup, and grooming should feel like you on your best day. The goal isn’t to look different. It’s to look polished, rested, and confident.

For hair, stick with a style you’re comfortable wearing.
Freshly trimmed facial hair, clean lines, and neat styling go a long way. If you color your hair, try to schedule your session within a week or two of a refresh so it looks intentional.

Makeup should enhance, not overpower.
Camera lighting can soften features, so slightly more definition than your everyday look usually photographs best. Even skin tone, defined brows, and a bit of contrast around the eyes help you look vibrant on camera.

Above all, aim to feel like yourself.
When you feel comfortable and put together, it shows.

Work with us

  • Meaningful Props

    The most successful sessions keep props simple and intentional. Choosing just a few meaningful pieces keeps the focus where it belongs, on your connection and story.

    Great prop ideas include:
    Instruments or sports gear
    Special collectibles or meaningful items
    A favorite vehicle
    Anything that reflects your family’s real life right now

    A few quick tips:
    Bring one or two meaningful items rather than a large collection.

    Choose props you naturally use, and avoid large logos or busy graphics.

    Smaller, hand-held items usually photograph best and feel more natural.

    If you’re planning to bring something larger, give us a quick heads-up so we can plan your session smoothly.

  • Pets Welcome

    We love when furry family members join the session. Pets are part of the story, and we’re always happy to include them when it feels right for your family and is safe to do so.

    Helpful tips:
    Bring treats if your pet is food motivated. They’re incredibly helpful for getting attention and rewarding cooperation.

    Pack the basics. Waste bags, water, and a small towel can be surprisingly helpful during your session.

    Plan for support. A carrier or extra helper makes it much easier once your pet’s time in photos is finished.

    Give them some exercise beforehand. A short walk or play session can help take the edge off their energy.

    Bring a simple leash or neutral collar. Busy patterns and bulky harnesses can be distracting in photos.

    Don’t worry about perfection. Sometimes the best photos come from candid moments.