As a West Texas family photographer, I have been able to capture various images and sessions. And it’s easy to get caught up in feeling like you capture the same thing repeatedly, and it becomes a routine. And if you are anything like me, routine gets old after a while. That is why I like to change things up during sessions. I have a consistent workflow that I follow while still capturing something unique during each session. Here are a few of my best family session secrets revealed.

All Together Family Pose

The first photo I like to capture at a family session is the posed – everyone looking at the camera shot. When the family first shows up to the portrait location, typically, the children are a little more shy at the beginning than at the end of the session. Therefore, I like to capture this portrait first. It’s important to me that I get that one with everyone looking at the camera. After this shot, I want to change things up a bit and have some fun. (Secret, capture the posed shot first, and move on.)

Dad with Children

Next, it’s Dad and the children. I know many dads who don’t prefer having their pictures taken, but they do it, and they do it willingly, and I appreciate that a lot. Typically, children have more fun when it comes to photographing them with dad than with mom. This is when I get to see their genuine smiles and capture the best shots of them together. (Secret: dad has the touch to make the children smile)

Mom with Little Ones

It’s mom’s turn! As a mom and photographer, I have very few pictures of myself with the children because I’m usually the one taking the photos, and I’m sure that’s the case for most moms out there. So mama, come prepared to get your pictures in during the session. (Secret: get plenty with mom and the little ones.)

Favorites of the Children

Calling all children. These were my favorite portraits during the session, especially the group hug. It’s amazing what I can get your children to do for me. So, Mom, if you have a favorite pose, send it my way, and I’ll be sure to sneak it into the session. There is no need to bribe your children before or during the session. We’ll have so much fun together that they’ll beg for another session. I typically capture a few individual pictures of each child as well. (Secret: Don’t tell the children until they all have to hug and it’s time to snap the photo.)

Parents Turn

Last, a few snapshots of Mom and Dad together. These go quickly but are a must in every gallery. I snap one of you looking at the camera and then one with a more candid approach. (Secret: don’t forget about mom and dad)

Just One More Photo

As the session ends, I will take one or two more family pictures. These tend to be fun and candid, with not everyone looking at the camera. They are often the favorite images captured during the entire session, well, besides the ones of the children together. (Secret: just one more.)

Now you can relax, Dad, because it’s over. Your session has finally come to an end. So, run for the car lest I change my mind again. You can rest assured, that’s it! I revealed my best family session secrets, and I hope you found this helpful.