Family photos are some of the most treasured keepsakes you will ever own. They freeze the giggles, the missing front teeth, the way your little one still reaches for your hand without thinking. But if you’re a parent, you may wonder how in the world you’re supposed to keep everyone happy long enough to capture those moments.

As a Lubbock family photographer, one of the biggest questions I get is, “How do I prepare my kids so this isn’t stressful?” The good news? A stress-free family session doesn’t require perfect behavior. It just takes a little preparation, a relaxed mindset, and a plan. Here’s exactly how to set your family up for success.

1. Talk About the Session in a Positive Way

Kids feed off your energy. If you talk about family photos like they’re a chore, they’ll treat it like one. Instead, build it up as something special and fun.

Tell them:

• “We get to take fun pictures together!”
• “We’re going to laugh and play.”
• “Afterward, we’ll grab ice cream.”

When children know what to expect, they feel more secure. A stress-free session starts long before we ever pick up the camera.

2. Keep the Day Calm and Unhurried

One of the biggest stress triggers before family photos is rushing. Try to avoid packing your session day with errands, sports games, or appointments.

Instead, try to plan ahead by laying outfits out the night before, making sure shoes are clean and ready, double-checking directions to your location, and trying to leave early so you’re not rushing. When you feel calm, your kids will feel calm too. And calm equals a stress-free session.

Family sessions can be so fun, and if you’re for a glimps of what a stress-free session looks like, here is sneak peak!

3. Feed Them Well (and Bring Snacks!)

Hungry kids and happy photos do not mix. Make sure everyone has a solid meal before your session time. If we’re shooting near sunset (which we often do for that dreamy West Texas light), that can fall close to dinner.

Bring small, non-messy snacks like crackers, fruit snacks, or puffs for toddlers.

Avoid anything that stains or melts. A quick snack break can completely reset a child’s mood and keep your family photos on track.

4. Stress-Free Family Session = Comfortable Clothing

Yes, we want beautiful, coordinated outfits. But itchy fabrics and stiff collars can derail even the happiest child.

When planning outfits for your session, try to choose soft, breathable fabrics that fit them well. Try to avoid brand-new shoes that could be uncomfortable for your kids, and start to let your older kids have a small say in what they get to wear.

When children feel comfortable, they’re far more likely to relax and be themselves in front of the camera.

5. Don’t Pressure Them to “Say Cheese”

Here’s something important: I don’t expect your children to stand perfectly still and smile at the camera the entire time.

As your Lubbock family photographer, my job is to guide and prompt in ways that bring out natural smiles. The magic happens in the tickle fights that happen, the little comments between your kids that make them laugh, and the way your toddler runs back into your arms.

When you let go of perfection, your family photos become more authentic and joyful.

6. Prepare Them for What Will Happen

Especially for younger kids, explain what the session will look like.

You might say:
“We’re going to meet Miss Mary. She’ll help us play some fun games and take pictures while we laugh together.”

Let them know:

• They won’t have to stand still the whole time.
• There will be breaks.
• It won’t last forever.

When children know there’s an endpoint, it reduces anxiety and helps create a stress-free environment.

7. Bring a Comfort Item (If Needed)

For toddlers especially, a small comfort item can be a lifesaver. A favorite stuffed animal or blanket can help them feel secure. We can even tuck it away between shots if needed.

Sometimes, including that comfort item in a few photos becomes part of your family’s story. Years from now, you’ll smile remembering that stage.

Trust Your Photographer

This might be the most important tip of all. When you hire me, you’re not just hiring someone to click a button on the camera. You’re hiring someone who understands children, someone who specializes in working with families.

I expect the wiggly boys who don’t like to stay still, all the silly faces, big energy from the more outgoing ones, and also the shy moments where they may be scared.

Raising six kids of my own, I understand how different each child can be.

And all of that is normal. I guide, redirect, and capture the in-between moments that matter most. You don’t need to discipline or apologize constantly. The more relaxed you are, the more stress-free your session will feel.

Let Go of Perfect

The most meaningful family photos are not the perfectly posed ones. They’re the ones where your baby is mid-laugh, your son is missing a button on the shirt you just bought him, and the ones where your daughter is squeezing you a little too tight!

Those are the moments that tell your story. It isn’t about flawless behavior. It’s about connection.

The Bigger Picture

Preparing your kids ahead of time makes a huge difference, but remember this: your children don’t have to be perfect to create beautiful family photos. They just have to be themselves. When you approach your session with flexibility, patience, and a little fun, it transforms the entire experience. And as your Lubbock family photographer, I’ll take care of the rest.

If you’ve been putting off scheduling because you’re worried about how your kids will behave, let this be your sign. With the right preparation and the right guidance, a stress-free session is absolutely possible.

And one day, when your babies aren’t so little anymore, you’ll be so grateful you captured this season exactly as it was.