Christmas Photo Session Tips: A Stress-Free Guide to Preparing Your Family

Christmas photo season is one of my favorite times of the year! Whether you're planning to use your photos for holiday cards, gifts, new frames around your home, or simply to document another year with your family, a little preparation can help make your session feel easy and enjoyable.

By October, my Bethlehem studio is filled with holiday sets, Christmas music, and lots of excited families. After more than 16 years of photographing children and families, I've learned that the best Christmas photos don't come from expecting everything to be perfect. They come from helping everyone feel comfortable, prepared, and ready to have a little fun.

If you already have a Christmas photo session on the calendar, here are some of my favorite tips to help you prepare.

Choose Your Outfits Ahead of Time

One of the biggest sources of stress before family photos is figuring out what everyone should wear. Don't leave this until the night before!

Instead of having everyone match exactly, choose outfits that coordinate. Start with one outfit you love and build the rest of the family's clothing around those colors.

Depending on the Christmas set you've selected, you might choose:

Classic holiday outfits for a timeless Christmas card look

Dressier clothing for an elegant holiday portrait

Sweaters, coats, scarves, and other winter layers for an outdoor-inspired set

Christmas pajamas for a cozy and playful look

Be sure to have everyone try on their complete outfit before your session. This is especially important for children, who seem to grow out of things overnight!

Don't forget the little details, either. Check shoes, socks, tights, accessories, and anything else that will show in your portraits.

Prepare Your Children for What to Expect

Talk to your children about the session before you arrive.

You can explain that you're going to take some family photos, show them photos from previous sessions, and let them know a little about what they'll be doing.

There's no need to practice smiles or tell them they need to "say cheese." In fact, I prefer that you don't!

My goal is to get genuine expressions rather than forced school-picture smiles. We'll work toward those important camera-aware portraits, but we'll also incorporate movement, interaction, hugs, laughs, and plenty of silliness.

Make Sure Everyone Has Eaten

Hungry kids and family photos are rarely a great combination!

Make sure children have something to eat before you leave for your session. If necessary, bring a clean, non-messy snack for the car ride.

Water is also a good idea, especially if you're coming directly from school, activities, or another busy part of your day.

And yes, promising a special treat or activity after the session can be excellent motivation!

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Try to avoid rushing into your session already feeling stressed.

Plan your route ahead of time and give yourself extra time for traffic, getting everyone dressed, fixing hair, and all those last-minute things that inevitably happen when you're trying to get an entire family out the door.

Arriving calm makes it much easier for your children to feel calm, too.

Do a Quick Check Before Your Session

Before we start photographing, take a minute to check the little things that are easy to overlook.

Empty bulky items from pockets. Remove hair ties and watches if you don't want them in your photos. Check for temporary tattoos, chipped nail polish, bandages, dirty glasses, messy faces, and runny noses.

Bring along a brush or comb for quick hair fixes.

These tiny details may not seem important beforehand, but you'll notice them much more when you're looking at your finished portraits.

Let Your Children Be Themselves

Some children walk into the studio smiling and ready to go.

Others need a little time.

That's completely normal.

I've photographed children with every kind of personality over the years. Some are outgoing and energetic. Others are quiet and reserved. Some want to know exactly what's happening before they're willing to participate.

I adjust the session to the child in front of me.

If your child has lots of energy, we'll keep things moving. If they're more reserved, I'm not going to force them to be chatty or immediately interact with me.

The goal isn't to change their personality for the photos. It's to help them feel comfortable enough to let their personality show.

Don't Worry About Perfect Behavior

Parents sometimes arrive worried that their children won't cooperate.

Here's the good news: your children don't need to behave perfectly for us to create beautiful photos.

We'll start with important posed portraits when possible and then mix in interaction and movement. We may walk, hug, tickle, snuggle, tell jokes, or take a quick break.

If something isn't working, we'll change it.

Keeping children engaged is much more effective than expecting them to sit perfectly still and smile on command.

Be Ready to Help Me Get Those Smiles

Sometimes your child will smile more easily for you than they will for someone holding a camera.

For sibling photos or individual portraits of your children, I may have you stand behind me and help get their attention. Be prepared to sing, make funny noises, dance, or act a little silly!

This is one time when embarrassing yourself in public is completely encouraged.

One thing I recommend leaving tucked away is your cell phone. If your child loves your phone and sees it during the session, they may suddenly decide it's the only thing they want. And we definitely don't want it ending up in all of your Christmas photos!

Focus on Your Family, Not the Camera

Some of my favorite images happen when families stop thinking about being photographed.

Love on your kids. Hug them. Snuggle them. Laugh with them.

I'll guide you through the session, including where to stand, what to do with your hands, and where to look. You don't need to arrive knowing how to pose or wondering what you're supposed to do next.

That's my job.

Your job is simply to enjoy your family.

What Happens After Your Christmas Photo Session?

Once your session is complete, I'll professionally edit your images and prepare your online proofing gallery.

Your proof gallery will be delivered within two weeks of your session. From there, you'll choose the digital images included with your session. You'll also have the option to purchase additional digital images or upgrade to the full gallery.

And don't forget about your photos after you download them!

Christmas portraits make wonderful gifts for grandparents and family members. Professional prints, framed prints, canvases, acrylic blocks, and other products can turn this year's photos into gifts that will be enjoyed long after the holidays are over.

The Most Important of My Christmas Photo Session Tips: Enjoy It

Christmas photo sessions don't need to feel stressful.

Your kids don't need to be perfect. Your family doesn't need to know how to pose. And you don't need to spend the entire session worrying about whether everyone is smiling.

Come prepared, but then let me take it from there.

My goal is to make the experience as easy as possible while creating a combination of beautiful, camera-aware portraits and genuine moments that capture your family as they are right now.

Because years from now, that's the part you'll want to remember most.

Already Thinking About Next Year's Christmas Photos?

Christmas sessions are one of my most popular offerings each year, and many dates fill quickly.

Fall and Christmas session booking opens August 1 each year.

If you missed out this season or want first choice of next year's dates and Christmas sets, mark your calendar and be sure you're on my email list. I'd love to have your family join me for another holiday season in the Bethlehem studio!

Planning Your Family Photo Session | Lehigh Valley Photographer

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Family Photo Session | Everything You Need to Know for Beautiful, Stress Free Family Photos

Planning a family photo session should be exciting, not overwhelming.

Yet if you've never worked with a professional photographer before, or even if you have, it's completely normal to have questions.

What should everyone wear?

Which location should we choose?

What if my toddler refuses to smile?

What happens if it rains?

How do we make sure everyone actually enjoys the experience?

After more than 16 years of photographing families throughout the Lehigh Valley, I've learned that the most successful sessions aren't about having perfect children, perfect weather, or perfect outfits.

They're about good planning.

When you know what to expect and have someone guiding you through the process, your session becomes less stressful and much more enjoyable. My goal is to make every family feel prepared, relaxed, and confident long before we ever meet for your session.

Whether you're celebrating a new baby, documenting another year together, or simply realizing how quickly your children are growing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right type of session to receiving your finished portraits.

Let's get started!

Family Photo Session Planning Checklist

If you're short on time, here's a quick overview of the planning process.

✔ Choose the right type of session

✔ Pick the best season for your family

✔ Select the perfect location

✔ Coordinate your outfits

✔ Prepare your children

✔ Relax and enjoy your session

✔ Choose your favorite images

✔ Order prints and artwork to enjoy for years to come

Keep reading for helpful tips on each step!

Table of Contents

1. Choose the Right Type of Family Session

2. Choose the Best Time of Year

3. Choose the Perfect Location

4. What Should We Wear?

5. Preparing Young Children

6. What Happens During Your Family Photo Session?

7. What Happens After Your Session?

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Ready to Plan Your Family Photo Session?

1. Choose the Right Type of Family Session

One of the first decisions you'll make is choosing the type of session that's the best fit for your family.

There isn't a "right" choice. There is simply the session that best matches your goals, your family's personality, and the experience you're hoping to have.

Whether you're looking for a quick seasonal update or a more relaxed, customized experience, understanding your options will help you choose the family session that's right for you.

Outdoor Family Sessions

A full Outdoor Family Session is my most popular option, and for good reason.

These sessions typically last about an hour, giving us plenty of time to slow down, let children warm up, and create a beautiful variety of images without feeling rushed.

We'll capture a mix of traditional family portraits, sibling photos, individual portraits, parent child combinations, and candid moments that showcase your family's unique connection.

One of the biggest advantages of a full session is flexibility.

You'll be able to choose from a variety of beautiful outdoor locations throughout the Lehigh Valley, allowing us to create a session that reflects your family's personality and style.

Full sessions are especially great for:

• Families with young children

• Families who want a larger variety of images

• Parents who prefer a relaxed pace

• Anyone who wants to choose their own location

• Families hoping to update wall portraits or create an album

Because we aren't rushing from one family to the next, there's plenty of time for snack breaks, cuddles, and those sweet in between moments that often become favorites.

💛 Tip

You don't need to know how to pose.

One of the biggest concerns I hear is, "We're awkward in front of the camera."

Please don't worry.

I'll guide you through the entire session, from where to stand to what to do with your hands. I'll also give you simple prompts that create natural interaction so your photos feel relaxed, genuine, and full of connection.

Seasonal Mini Sessions

If you're looking for updated family portraits in a shorter amount of time, Seasonal (Spring, Summer & Fall) Mini Sessions may be the perfect fit.

These sessions are offered on select dates at carefully chosen locations throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Because seasonal mini sessions are scheduled back to back, the location, date, and session length are predetermined.

They're a wonderful option for:

• Annual family portraits

• Holiday cards

• Families who love a specific seasonal setup

• Older children who warm up quickly

• Clients looking for a shorter session experience

Although they're shorter, you'll still receive the same guidance and attention throughout your session.

💛 Tip

Mini sessions aren't "less than" a full session. They're simply different.

If you're looking for updated family portraits and love the featured location, a mini session can be a fantastic choice.

If you have very young children, want more variety, or would like the flexibility to choose your own location, a full Outdoor Family Session is often the better fit.

Extended Family Sessions

Getting everyone together doesn't happen very often.

That's what makes extended family sessions so meaningful.

Whether you're celebrating grandparents, welcoming a new grandchild, or simply enjoying time together, these sessions preserve memories across generations.

During an extended family session, we'll capture:

• The entire family together

• Grandparents with grandchildren

• Individual family groups

• Sibling families

• Cousins together

• Grandchildren together

• Individual children

• Any special groupings you'd like

These sessions typically last 75 to 90 minutes, giving us plenty of time to photograph each family combination while keeping the experience relaxed and organized.

💛 Tip

The best extended family sessions start with a plan.

Before your session, we'll discuss family groupings and create a simple plan so everyone knows what to expect. Starting with the largest group first helps everything run smoothly, especially when little ones are involved, and ensures we capture all the important combinations before anyone needs a break.

Family Session Comparison

Session Type	Best For	Session Length	Location
Outdoor Family Session	Families wanting a relaxed experience, more variety, and flexibility	Approximately 1 hour	Choose from a variety of beautiful outdoor locations throughout the Lehigh Valley
Seasonal Mini Session	Updated family portraits, holiday cards, and families looking for a shorter session	20 minutes	Select dates at predetermined locations
Extended Family Session	Multiple generations, family reunions, and milestone celebrations	75 to 90 minutes	Choose from a variety of outdoor locations that comfortably accommodate larger groups

💛 Tip

Still not sure which session is right for you?

I'm always happy to help. After learning a little about your family, your goals, and the ages of your children, I can recommend the session that will give you the best experience and the images you're hoping for.

Which Session Is Right for You?

Choose an Outdoor Family Session if you:

✔ Want more time

✔ Have young children

✔ Want lots of variety

✔ Want to choose your location

✔ Love relaxed, storytelling images

Choose a Seasonal Mini Session if you:

✔ Want updated family portraits

✔ Love the featured location

✔ Are looking for a shorter session

✔ Need photos for holiday cards

Choose an Extended Family Session if you:

✔ Are gathering multiple generations

✔ Want portraits of grandparents with grandchildren

✔ Are celebrating a milestone or family gathering

No matter which session you choose, my goal is always the same. To create a relaxed, enjoyable experience while capturing timeless portraits you'll treasure for years to come.

2. Choose the Best Time of Year

One of the questions I hear most often is:

"When is the best time of year for family photos?"

The answer is simple. There isn't one perfect season. Every time of year offers something beautiful, and the best choice depends on the look you're hoping to achieve, your family's schedule, and the experience you'd like to have.

Here's a look at what each season has to offer.

Spring Sessions

Spring is one of my favorite times of year to photograph families.

Everything begins to come back to life, with flowering trees, fresh greenery, gardens, and soft pastel colors creating a beautiful backdrop for portraits.

Spring sessions are perfect if you love:

• Fresh blooms and flowering trees

• Soft, light colors

• Comfortable temperatures

• A bright, airy feel

Spring is also a wonderful option if you'd like updated family portraits before the busy fall season arrives.

💛 Tip

Love flowers? Let's plan around them!

Many of my favorite spring locations look completely different throughout the season. Depending on when your session is scheduled, we can take advantage of flowering trees, gardens, or lush greenery. I'm always happy to recommend the best location based on what's blooming.

Summer Sessions

Summer offers rich green landscapes, longer evenings, and beautiful sunsets.

Since the sun sets later, outdoor sessions are often easier to schedule around work and summer activities.

Summer is also when I offer a few special seasonal sessions throughout the year, including sunflower fields and beach sessions.

If your family enjoys warm evenings and vibrant greenery, summer may be the perfect fit.

💛 Tip

Don't worry about the later start time.

During the summer, the best light happens closer to sunset. While sessions may begin later in the evening than you might expect, that soft golden light is what creates the warm, glowing portraits you see throughout my portfolio. It's well worth the slightly later bedtime for one evening.

Fall Sessions

Fall is my busiest season, and it's easy to see why.

The colorful foliage, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful evening light create timeless family portraits that many families use for holiday cards, gifts, and updated wall art.

During the fall, I offer both Fall Mini Sessions on select dates and Outdoor Fall Family Sessions with more flexibility in scheduling and location.

Because fall is so popular, booking opens on August 1, and many of the most requested dates are reserved early.

💛 Tip

If you're hoping for holiday cards, don't wait until October to book.

Many families are surprised to learn that holiday portraits are photographed well before Thanksgiving. Booking early gives you the best selection of dates and plenty of time for editing, ordering cards, and holiday gifts.

Winter Sessions

Winter may not be the first season that comes to mind for family portraits, but it can be one of the most beautiful.

Historic architecture, evergreen trees, clean backgrounds, and soft winter light create elegant, timeless images.

It's also the season for my Studio Christmas Sessions, which offer a warm, cozy indoor experience while creating festive holiday portraits before Thanksgiving.

If you're looking for a classic holiday feel, or simply want to avoid the crowds of fall, winter sessions can be a wonderful option.

💛 Tip

Studio sessions are perfect for unpredictable weather.

If you're worried about cold temperatures or young children being outside, a studio session provides a comfortable environment while still giving you beautiful, timeless portraits.

Which Season Is Right for You?

Every season has something special to offer.

Choose Spring if you love flowers, gardens, and soft colors.

Choose Summer if you enjoy lush greenery, golden sunsets, and longer evenings.

Choose Fall if you're dreaming of colorful foliage and want portraits ready for holiday cards.

Choose Winter if you love timeless architecture, evergreen landscapes, or a cozy studio holiday experience.

No matter when you schedule your session, I'll help you choose the season, location, and timing that best fits your family's style.

3. Choose the Perfect Location

When planning your family photo session, the location can help tell your family's story.

Whether you picture colorful gardens, rustic stone walls, open fields, historic architecture, or tree lined paths, choosing the right setting helps create portraits that feel personal and timeless.

One of the biggest advantages of booking a full Outdoor Family Session is that you aren't limited to a pre-selected location.

Together, we'll choose a setting that complements your family's style, your clothing, the season, and the overall look you're hoping to achieve. Check out my locations guide here.

Some of My Favorite Lehigh Valley Locations

Every family is different, which is why I photograph at a variety of locations throughout the Lehigh Valley.

A few favorites include:

Lehigh University

Perfect for families who love timeless architecture, beautiful stone buildings, fountains, wood doors, pathways, steps, and elegant backgrounds.

Lockridge Park

One of my favorite locations for rustic charm.

The historic stone ruins, open spaces, and beautiful fall color create a timeless setting that's beautiful throughout much of the year.

Burnside Plantation

If you're looking for a mix of rustic charm and natural beauty, Burnside Plantation offers gardens, barns, historic buildings, and open spaces that photograph beautifully in every season.

Trexler Nature Preserve

A wonderful choice for families who love wide open fields, tall grasses, and a peaceful natural setting.

Downtown Bethlehem

Historic streets, charming architecture, seasonal details, and classic architecture make Downtown Bethlehem a beautiful option for families looking for a timeless urban feel.

💛 Tip

Not sure where to go?

You don't have to decide on your own.

After booking, you'll receive my Session Guide, which includes location suggestions based on the type of session you've booked.

You'll also receive access to my Location Gallery, where you can browse many of my favorite Lehigh Valley locations throughout different seasons. Seeing real sessions from each location makes it much easier to picture your own family there.

If you're still undecided, I'm always happy to recommend a location based on your family's style, the ages of your children, and the overall look you're hoping to achieve.

Find the Perfect Location for Your Family

If you love...	I recommend...
Historic architecture	Lehigh University
Rustic charm	Lockridge Park
Barns and gardens	Burnside Plantation
Open fields and nature	Trexler Nature Preserve
A classic downtown feel	Downtown Bethlehem
Spring blooms	Bethlehem Library, Allentown Rose Garden, Graver Arboretum
Peak fall foliage	Lockridge Park, Lehigh University, Walnutport Canal

💛 Tip

Trust your photographer.

One of the biggest advantages of hiring an experienced photographer is knowing you'll receive guidance every step of the way.

When recommending locations, I consider much more than just the scenery. I think about the season, lighting, sunset time, accessibility, the ages of your children, and how each location photographs throughout the year.

My goal is to help you choose a location that not only looks beautiful but also creates the best possible experience for your family.

4. What Should We Wear?

If there's one part of planning a family photo session that causes the most stress, it's choosing what everyone should wear.

The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated.

The goal isn't to match perfectly. It's to coordinate. Choosing a color palette with two or three complementary colors creates a timeless look while allowing each family member's personality to shine through.

Soft neutrals, earth tones, muted blues, creams, greens, and warm seasonal colors photograph beautifully throughout the year. During the fall, shades like rust, olive, navy, cream, mustard, and burgundy complement the landscape without competing with it.

Whenever possible, avoid large logos, bright neon colors, and busy patterns because they can distract from what matters most, your family.

One of my favorite pieces of advice?

Start with Mom's outfit first.

Once you've found something you feel confident and comfortable wearing, it's much easier to coordinate everyone else's clothing around it.

After booking, you'll receive my Style Guide, which includes color inspiration, outfit ideas, and planning tips to make this part of the process simple and stress free.

💛 Tip

Comfort always photographs better than perfection.

Choose clothing that fits well and allows everyone to move comfortably. When children aren't constantly adjusting itchy sweaters or uncomfortable shoes, they're able to relax. That always shows in the photos.

5. Preparing Young Children

Parents often apologize before the session even begins.

"I'm sorry if he doesn't smile."

"She probably won't cooperate."

"They're having a day."

Please don't worry.

After photographing children for more than 16 years, I can confidently tell you that every child is different. That's exactly how it should be.

Some children run up to me the moment they arrive.

Others quietly observe for a while before joining in.

Some are full of energy.

Some are shy.

My job isn't to make your child fit into a certain mold.

My job is to meet them where they are.

A few simple things can help your session go smoothly:

• Schedule around nap time whenever possible.

• Offer a meal or snack before arriving.

• Let your children know you're going somewhere fun.

• Avoid putting pressure on them to smile.

• Bring a comfort item if needed.

• Most importantly, stay relaxed.

Children are incredibly good at reading their parents' emotions. When you're relaxed, they're much more likely to relax too. Read more on my blog: "What If My Child Won't Cooperate During Our Photo Session?"

💛 Tip

Don't practice saying "cheese."

Some of the most beautiful smiles happen naturally during play, conversation, and interaction. My goal isn't to capture forced smiles. It's to capture your child's genuine personality.

6. What Happens During Your Family Photo Session?

One of the biggest questions I hear is...

"What actually happens during the session?"

If you've never had professional family photos taken before, you may be picturing everyone standing stiffly and smiling at the camera for an hour.

I promise, it isn't like that.

Here's what you can expect.

When You Arrive

We'll spend the first few minutes saying hello and getting everyone comfortable.

For younger children, I like to let them look around, chat a little, and realize that this is going to be fun, not stressful.

I'll also make a few quick adjustments, like fixing collars, checking hair, and making sure everyone is camera ready before we begin.

💛 Tip

Arrive a few minutes early if you can.

It gives everyone a chance to settle in before we start and helps the session begin in a relaxed way.

We'll Start with Traditional Portraits

Most sessions begin with a few classic family portraits while everyone is fresh and engaged.

These are often the images families choose for holiday cards, framed artwork, and gifts.

Once we've captured those, we'll begin mixing in movement, interaction, and natural moments.

Then We'll Have Some Fun

This is where the magic happens.

We'll walk.

We'll laugh.

We'll cuddle.

We'll tell jokes.

We'll play little games.

We'll let the kids explore.

I'll guide you through simple prompts that encourage genuine connection rather than stiff posing.

Those in between moments often become everyone's favorites.

💛 Tip

Don't worry if your children aren't looking at the camera the whole time.

Some of the sweetest images happen when children are looking at Mom, laughing with Dad, or holding a sibling's hand.

Those genuine moments tell your family's story.

Every Child Is Different

One of the things I've learned over the years is that there isn't one approach that works for every child.

If your child is energetic, we'll keep moving.

If they're shy, we'll slow down.

If they're silly, we'll laugh with them.

If they need a break, we'll take one.

My sessions are built around your family, not the other way around.

💛 Tip

Trust the process.

Sometimes the best portraits happen 30 minutes into the session after children have had time to warm up and simply enjoy themselves.

Before You Know It...

Most families are surprised by how quickly the session goes.

By the end, we've created a gallery filled with traditional portraits, candid moments, and all the little interactions that make your family uniquely yours.

7. What Happens After Your Session?

Although your session is finished, my work is just beginning.

I carefully review every image before professionally editing your gallery.

Within approximately two weeks, you'll receive an online proof gallery where you can view your images from home.

From there, you'll:

• Select your included images.

• Upgrade to additional digitals if you'd like.

• Order professional prints.

• Create albums.

• Purchase framed artwork and gifts. Check out my blog on prints & artwork.

I'm always happy to help if you're deciding between images or planning artwork for your home.

💛 Tip

Don't let your memories live on your phone.

Your family's portraits deserve to be enjoyed every day, not just stored on a phone or computer.

Whether it's framed artwork in your home, an heirloom album on your coffee table, or prints for grandparents, professionally printed photographs become part of your family's story for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a family session last?

Outdoor Family Sessions typically last 45-60 minutes, Fall Mini Sessions are 20 minutes, and Extended Family Sessions are 75 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of your group.

What if it rains?

If rain or unsafe weather is in the forecast, we'll simply reschedule your outdoor session. I always want your family to have the best experience possible.

Can grandparents be included?

Absolutely!

Grandparents are welcome to join a full Outdoor Family Session, or you may choose an Extended Family Session if multiple generations will be participating.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes!

Many outdoor locations are pet friendly. Just let me know ahead of time so we can choose the best location and plan accordingly.

When will I receive my photos?

Your proof gallery is typically delivered within approximately two weeks of your session.

Do you help us choose our favorite images?

Absolutely.

I'm always happy to answer questions, help narrow down favorites, or offer guidance when selecting artwork for your home.

Why Families Return Year After Year

One of the greatest compliments I receive is when families come back year after year to document each new chapter of their lives.

I've had the privilege of photographing growing families from maternity sessions to newborns, baby's first year, family portraits, senior sessions, and even welcoming the next generation.

Building those long term relationships is one of the things I love most about being a family photographer. It's an honor to watch families grow and to preserve the moments that become part of their story.

Whether it's your first session or your fifteenth, I look forward to creating images you'll treasure for years to come.

Ready to Plan Your Family Photo Session?

Whether you're celebrating a new season of life, updating your family portraits, or simply wanting to capture the people you love most, I'd love to help make the experience enjoyable from beginning to end.

From choosing the perfect location and coordinating outfits to guiding you through the session and helping you select your favorite images, I'm here to make the process simple, relaxed, and stress free.

If you're ready to create timeless portraits that you'll enjoy for years to come, I'd love to work with you.

Explore my Family Session options or contact me today to start planning a session that's the perfect fit for your family.

What Should I Bring to My Family Photo Session?

Your family photo session is coming up! You’ve chosen your outfits, picked the location and added the date to your calendar. Now you may be wondering: What should I actually bring to my family photo session?

Your family photo session is coming up...the good news is that you don’t need to pack half the house.

A little preparation can make a big difference, especially when young children are involved. After more than 16 years of photographing families and children throughout the Lehigh Valley, I’ve learned that some of the smallest details can help everyone arrive feeling comfortable, prepared and ready to enjoy the experience.

Here are my best tips for what to do before your session, what to bring along and a few things you may want to leave tucked away.

Prepare Your Children Before Photo Day

One of the best things you can do happens before you ever leave the house.

Talk to your children about the photo session and what they can expect. Keep it positive and let them know that we'll be walking around, taking some pictures looking at the camera and having some fun together.

You can even show them photos from past sessions so they have an idea of what they'll be doing. Knowing what to expect can make a new experience feel much more comfortable.

Give your children confidence, too. Let them know how much these photos mean to you and that you know they're going to do a great job.

If possible, give them a little ownership over the experience. You might choose two outfits you're happy with and let your child decide which one they'd like to wear.

Try On Everyone's Outfits Ahead of Time

Don't wait until an hour before your session to discover that someone's pants are suddenly too short or a dress is itchy!

Have children try on their complete outfits ahead of time to make sure everything fits and feels comfortable.

Take a quick look for:

• Missing buttons

• Broken zippers

• Stains

• Clothing that is too tight or uncomfortable

• Shoes that no longer fit

Comfort is especially important for younger children. If something is itchy, scratchy or uncomfortable at home, it's probably going to bother them even more during the session.

Make sure you're also choosing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are always a great option for outdoor sessions because Pennsylvania weather can be unpredictable.

Make Sure Everyone Eats Before the Session

This one is important!

Feed your children before your family photo session. If the timing works with their normal schedule, make sure younger children have had a good nap as well.

A rested child with a full belly is usually much happier than a tired, hungry one.

You can also pack a small, clean snack or treat for the car ride or to use during the session if needed. Choose something that isn't likely to leave crumbs, stains or sticky fingers all over carefully planned outfits.

For younger children, having a special treat or toy waiting after the session can also give them something fun to look forward to.

What Should You Bring to Your Family Photo Session?

You really don't need very much. In fact, I prefer that families aren't carrying multiple bags of things around throughout an outdoor session.

A few items can be helpful:

• Water bottles, especially during warmer months

• A clean, non-messy snack for younger children

• A hairbrush or comb

• An extra layer when the weather calls for it

• A favorite small toy, kept hidden unless we need it

If your child is still in diapers and their outfit could potentially show the diaper, please bring or have them wear a diaper cover.

For outdoor sessions, think about the weather when choosing hairstyles as well. Wind, humidity and heat can all affect hair differently, so choose a style that will hold up well for the conditions.

Keep Favorite Toys and Phones Hidden

You are absolutely welcome to bring a favorite small toy or comfort item for your child. Just keep it tucked away unless we actually need it.

Sometimes we never do!

The same is especially true for cell phones. If your child loves holding your phone, please don't pull it out unless absolutely necessary. Once a phone appears, some children don't want to give it back, and suddenly the phone is part of every photo.

Cell phones will not be edited out of your images, so keeping them out of sight is the best plan.

Your Family Photo Session Checklist Before We Start

There are a few tiny details that are surprisingly noticeable in photographs.

Right before the session begins:

• Clean glasses. Smudges on lenses are much more noticeable in photos than you might think.

• Empty pockets. Phones, keys and wallets can create visible bulges.

• Remove hair ties from wrists.

• Remove Fitbits, Apple Watches or other items you don't want visible in your portraits.

• Remove temporary tattoos if you don't want them photographed.

• Take care of chipped nail polish when possible.

• Remove unnecessary Band-Aids.

• Check everyone's hair and clothing one last time.

These are all little things that are much easier to take care of before the photo is taken rather than hoping they can be fixed later.

Use GPS and Plan to Arrive Early

Even if you've been to the location before, I recommend using GPS and allowing yourself some extra time.

Traffic, parking, road construction and simply finding our exact meeting spot can sometimes take longer than expected.

Arriving a few minutes early gives everyone a chance to get out of the car, make final adjustments and settle in before we begin.

More importantly, you're not starting your family photo session feeling rushed and stressed.

Love on Your Family!

Once the session starts, you don't need to worry about knowing what to do. I'll guide you through it.

But one thing I will always encourage you to do is love on your family.

Give hugs. Give kisses. Tickle your kids. Snuggle together. Laugh.

I love creating beautiful, camera-aware family portraits, but I also want to capture the connection between the people in them. Some of those interactions create the images families love the most.

Parents, Be Prepared to Get a Little Silly

When I'm photographing individual portraits of your children or sibling photos, I may need your help getting a great smile.

Be prepared to sing, make silly noises or act a little crazy!

Your child will often smile more easily for you than for someone they just met.

When you're helping, I'll usually ask you to stand directly behind me. This is important because it keeps your child's eyes directed toward my camera. If you're standing off to the side trying to get a smile, that's where your child will look too.

Don't worry. I'll let you know when I need your help.

Keep an Eye on Hair, Clothing and Little Faces

I'll be watching the details throughout your session, but parents can help too.

If you notice hair falling out of place, a shirt riding up or clothing that needs adjusting, feel free to help fix it.

And with younger children, please wipe noses and faces as needed throughout the session. It's much easier to take care of those little things while we're there than to fix every image afterward.

Is Your Dog Joining Your Family Photos?

Dogs are family too, and I love when they're included!

If your dog is coming along, plan to keep them leashed throughout the entire session. You can also bring treats or a favorite squeaky toy in a small tote bag. I'm happy to hang onto the bag while we're photographing so it isn't sitting in your photos.

Having another adult or helper can also be extremely useful, particularly when you're combining a dog with younger children.

And remember that expectations may need to be a little different when pets are involved. We can absolutely capture beautiful posed family portraits, but walking shots and other interaction photos can be wonderful additions too.

What DON'T You Need to Bring?

You don't need to arrive with a Pinterest board full of poses.

You don't need to know where to stand.

You don't need to figure out how to position everyone's hands.

And you definitely don't need to spend the entire session worrying about whether your children are behaving perfectly.

That's my job.

I'll guide your family through the session, from the more traditional posed portraits to walking, interaction and connection images. We'll keep things moving, give younger children breaks when they need them and adjust based on your family's personalities.

Your job is simply to show up prepared, love on your family and enjoy this little bit of time together.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Family photos don't require perfection.

A little preparation simply removes some of the distractions that can make a session feel stressful. When everyone has eaten, clothing is comfortable, you've allowed enough time to arrive and you have a few essentials nearby, it's much easier to relax and enjoy the experience.

As a Lehigh Valley family photographer, my goal is to make the entire process feel comfortable and well guided from beginning to end. I'll take care of the posing, prompts and photography so you can concentrate on the people you're there to photograph in the first place.

Ready to update your family photos? Explore my Lehigh Valley family photography sessions and let's start planning a session that's perfect for your family.