Surviving a Family Photoshoot: A Photographer's Perspective


A family shoot, by the beach, at sunset! Sounds beautiful, doesn’t it? As a mum, you’ve already envisioned those stunning images gracing your walls, a perfect snapshot of your family’s love and togetherness. But when you get to the beach, the reality often looks a bit different.

It’s sunset, and while the light is perfect, the kids are tired and hungry. Those outfits you spent weeks choosing? They’re already dirty, and the kids are bickering. Your partner? They’re trying to be a good sport but are secretly hoping this doesn’t take too long. Alright, everyone, ready? 1, 2, 3, smillleeeeee.

Oh, how something so beautiful can turn so wild! It’s okay… I get it. I’ve been there. I see this every week.


The Reality of Family Photoshoots


As a photographer, I’ve seen it all. The chaos, the meltdowns, the reluctant smiles. But here’s a little secret: these moments, as imperfect as they seem, are part of what makes your family unique. They tell a story far more interesting than perfect smiles and coordinated outfits. And here is my biggest secret… These moments are where the magic lies. Through my lens, I capture those sneaky grins, the way your kids look at each other, the way your toddler crinkles their nose, or their big, excited eyes. These little things will change over time, and through a photo, you get to keep them forever.

Embrace the Imperfections

Go with the Flow: Kids will be kids. They’ll get dirty, they’ll fight, they’ll get distracted. Instead of trying to control every moment, let them be themselves. Some of the best photos come from candid moments where genuine emotions shine through.

  1. Timing is Key: Every photographer loves golden hour, just before the sun sets. The sun’s light is gentle on your skin, and you glow in your images. But there’s only about an hour for this. Don’t get stressed; a lot can happen at this time. If your kids are shy or overly excited and need some warm-up or chill-down time, arrive a little early for the shoot. Play a game and settle in, so when your shoot starts, everyone’s ready and the nerves are settled.
  2. Snacks and Breaks: Some snacks go a long way! Just try not to bring chocolates or ones that might stain the outfits. That said, a nice treat can be a good little bribe to keep the kids on their toes.
  3. Let Go of Perfection: The perfect photo isn’t about everyone looking flawless and smiling at the camera. It’s about capturing the essence of your family. Those goofy faces, the laughter, even the tears – they’re all part of your story.

Trust Your Photographer


Remember, I’m here to capture your family as they are. I’ve worked with countless families and know how to work through the chaos to get those beautiful shots you’re dreaming of. Trust the process, and trust that I’ll find the magic in the moments you might not even notice.

The Outcome

Despite the challenges, the result is always worth it. When you look at those photos on your wall, you’ll see more than just smiles. You’ll see a family that loves each other deeply, a family that can weather the small storms and still come out smiling (eventually).

So, to all the parents out there, take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. The journey might be wild, but the destination is a beautiful snapshot of your unique family, imperfections, and all. And that, my friends, is truly picture-perfect.

Author's Note: If you’re preparing for an upcoming family photo shoot and feeling a bit anxious, remember you’re not alone. Every family goes through the same ups and downs, and that’s okay. Just relax, have fun, and let the moments unfold naturally. Your photos will turn out beautifully, I promise. If you have any specific information for me before your shoot to help the time go smoothly, let me know when you book in, and I'm always here to chat!


Sally xx