From Chaos to Calm: What to Expect at Your Family Photo Session
Nervous about your family photo session? Join the club. But it doesn’t have to be that way. That’s why you hire a professional. Here’s what to expect – and how we go from chaos to calm during your time in front of the lens.
“We’re Not a Picture-Perfect Family” (And That’s Perfectly Fine)
If you’ve ever worried that your kids won’t sit still, your partner hates photos, or you just aren’t “photogenic,” you’re not alone. Most families feel a little nervous going into their session – but you don’t need to.
Our goal isn’t stiff poses and forced smiles. It’s connection, joy, and the moments that make your family yours.
What Happens Before Your Session
We guide you every step of the way, starting with a quick pre-session planning call or email to cover:
- Location and time (based on lighting *if outdoors* and your kids’ best moods)
- Outfit styling help (we even have pieces you can borrow!)
- Session goals (grandparent gifts? holiday cards? updated wall art?)
What to Expect During the Session
The session itself is relaxed and fun – yes, really!
Here’s how we help things flow:
- Start with play-based prompts and movement to ease into it
- Take breaks when needed – snacks encouraged (as long as they are not messy!)
- Keep the pacing fast and upbeat for short attention spans
- Mix classic portraits with candid moments
We don’t expect your kids to behave perfectly – in fact, some of the best images come from the in-between moments.
Common Worries (and How We Handle Them)
“My toddler is wild.” Perfect. Let them play. We’ll capture their energy, not fight it.
“My partner isn’t into this.” We make it quick, painless, and even fun. Promise.
“What if someone melts down?” It happens. We roll with it. Flexibility is built into every session.
What Surprises Most Families
- “That was actually fun!” We hear this all the time.
- You’ll probably laugh more than you expected.
- Kids often do better than parents predict.
- The candid moments usually become your favorite photos.
The best compliment I can get is that they had fun! And the second best thing is that they love them so much they have to have them all!
After the Session: Choosing Your Favorites
We’ll schedule a design and ordering appointment where you can:
- See a gallery of fully edited images
- Choose your favorites for albums, wall art, and/or gifts
- Get guidance on products that fit your space + lifestyle
From Chaos to Calm – You’ve Got This
You don’t need to show up perfect. Just show up. We’ll take care of the rest.
Whether your session is in our studio, or at one of amazing Chicago outdoor locations, we bring the calm, the creativity, and the camera. You bring your people.
Check out more of our family work here!
