You are preparing for a family photo session in Perth and don’t know where to begin.
You’ve finally booked the session. You did it! You’ve wrangled dates, made the decision (after months of “we really should do this”), and now it’s in the diary. So why does it still feel a bit like you’re preparing for battle instead of a joyful, memory-making moment?
If your heart rate speeds up thinking about outfits, toddler meltdowns, or the potential for someone to shout “not smiling!” during the session… you’re not alone.
I’ve been there too, both as a photographer guiding families and as a mum trying to get the kids to just wear the shirt. After over a decade behind the lens, I’ve learned that with a bit of preparation and the right mindset, your family photo session can feel less like a performance and more like play.
Let’s walk through it together.
The Pressure Is Real, But You Can Let It Go (Elsa style!)
So many of the lovely families I meet, from Karrinyup to Yanchep, come into their first session feeling a bit tense (understandably). You want everything to go smoothly, the kids to behave, the light to be just right.
But here’s the secret: the magic doesn’t come from everyone following directions perfectly. It comes from connection. From giggles and cuddles, a little chaos, and letting yourself be in the moment rather than managing it.
I see you, the mum with the full calendar and little humans climbing your leg!) You don’t need to hold it all together. You just need to show up. I’ll take it from there.
What Happens Before the Shoot Matters
Let’s break it into simple steps. Here’s how to prep for your family photo session without the stress:
1. Know That the Kids Don’t Have to “Perform”
One of the biggest misconceptions is that children need to behave “perfectly” to get great photos. Honestly? Quite the opposite.
- I actually love when kids arrive with big energy, curiosity, or even shyness. It tells me they’re being themselves.
- Your child doesn’t have to smile on cue. We’ll get those magical expressions during play, cuddles, or simple moments.
- Breaks are built in. Exploring, snack breathers, or just resting in your arms. It all of it adds depth to your story.
Remember: a single photo is captured in a fraction of a second. We don’t need perfection for 60 minutes (that sounds exhausting!!) We just need a few beautiful moments throughout.
If you want more info on this topic, I have blog post for that – Help! My kids wont behave!
2. Let Go (Just a Little) and Lean Into the Play
This might be the most important part. The way you show up on the day sets the tone for your children.
If you’re gently whispering “smile” every two seconds or correcting the kids constantly, they can feel that tension (and honestly, the photos will show it). But if you trust the process, relax, and just have fun with your little ones – they’ll follow your lead.
- Snuggle them. Toss them in the air. Let them climb all over you.
- Don’t worry if their hair is messy or someone has a wrinkled shirt. Truthfully, that’s what makes it real.
- React with joy instead of correction. We’re creating memories, not a school portrait.
3. Use the Prep Resources (And Reach Out When You Need Help)
I send lots of info before the shoot and not to overload you, but to give you peace of mind.
- Outfit guides with easy, mix-and-match suggestions (think flowy dresses, linen shirts, comfy neutrals)
- Location tips based on the best light and minimal crowds
- Schedule reminders so the day doesn’t creep up on you
- A simple checklist so nothing falls through the cracks
And if something still feels unclear? Ask. Message me. Send a photo if you’re debating two outfits. I want to make it easy. Want to check out my Ultimate What To Wear Guide? Just click here!
4. Trust That You Don’t Have to Be “On” the Whole Time
Sometimes mums (and dads too) think they need to be camera-ready and smiling the entire shoot. But that’s just not how it works in real families – and it’s not what I’m after.
- The full session is designed around movement and flow. We pause when needed. We change directions based on how the kids are feeling.
- It’s completely normal if your toddler takes 30 or even 40 minutes to warm up. Doesn’t matter. We’ll still end up with a full, love-soaked gallery.
- The goal is to be with your family, not posing for the camera. I capture what unfolds naturally.
Why Preparing For A Family Photo Session in Perth Actually Matters
Here’s the thing: what you’ll remember when you look back at these images won’t be what you wore or how your hair looked. It’ll be the way your child tucked their face into your chest mid-cuddle, or how they looked at you like you hung the moon.
The little moments we tend to miss in the everyday chaos – those are the moments I capture.
So yes, a bit of thoughtful prep can make the day smoother, but the heart of the session? That’s you just showing up, connecting, and letting your family simply be.
Let’s Make This Easy and Beautiful
If you’ve been putting off family photos because it “feels too hard,” I hope this gave you a gentle reminder: it doesn’t have to be.
Your story deserves to be told. You deserve to be in the photos. And your children won’t remember if your dress was perfectly pressed – they’ll remember that you were there, holding them, smiling at them, soaking up the magic of now.
If you’re ready to start (or if you’ve booked and this has eased some of those jitters), I’d love to help.
You bring the beautiful chaos. I’ll bring the calm, the camera, and the reassurance that you’re doing just fine.
CLICK HERE to explore my Client Experience Guide and here to get in touch. I’ll guide you every step of the way
x Eileen
