Hey there, awesome families! If you’re gearing up for your first family photo session with young kids, you’re probably excited (and maybe a little nervous) about capturing those precious moments. As your go-to photographer, I’m here to share some tried-and-true Do’s and Don’ts to make your session with Ryan Bouse Photography a breeze. My goal? To help you relax, have fun, and walk away with photos that show the real, joyful chaos of your family. Let’s dive in!
Do: Follow Your Photographer’s Advice (or Ask for It!) Every photographer has their own vibe, and I’m all about those longer, lifestyle sessions that capture genuine moments—think candid giggles, silly faces, and heartfelt hugs. If I send you a style guide or tips (like my handy questionnaire), lean into it! It’s designed to make your photos shine. If you don’t get a guide, don’t be shy—reach out and ask what to expect. Knowing the plan helps everyone feel ready.
Don’t: Show Up Late I get it—getting kids out the door is like herding cats. But arriving on time is huge. My sessions are typically an hour, but I block off extra time (30-60 minutes) to keep things relaxed and make sure we get those perfect shots. Plan to arrive early so we can ease into the session without stress. Pro tip: Pack snacks and toys to keep the little ones happy!
Do: Coordinate Outfits (But Keep It Simple) Matching outfits are great, but you don’t need to go full-on catalog model. Pick 1-2 outfits per person that vibe together—think complementary colors or patterns that feel cohesive but not identical. For example, soft neutrals or pops of color work great for that natural, timeless look. Send me your ideas through the questionnaire, and I’ll help guide you if needed!
Don’t: Over-Coordinate or Stress the Details Avoid dressing everyone in the exact same outfit (unless that’s your thing!). It can look stiff and take away from those authentic moments we’re after. Also, don’t sweat the small stuff like perfectly ironed shirts—kids will be kids, and a little messiness adds character to lifestyle shots.
Do: Fill Out the Questionnaire Completely When you book with me, I’ll send a quick questionnaire to get to know your family—your kids’ personalities, favorite activities, or even what makes them laugh. Taking a few minutes to fill it out fully helps me plan a session that feels like you. It’s also how we pick the perfect location and vibe, so don’t skip this step!
Don’t: Push for Posed Shots if Natural Feels Better I know posed photos are tempting, but trust me—those candid, in-the-moment shots often steal the show. If your kids are running around or making silly faces, let them! I’ll guide you with light posing if needed, but resisting the flow of natural moments can make the session feel forced. Let’s capture the real stuff—your family’s unique spark.
Do: Prep Your Kids (More on That Soon!) Getting your little ones ready for a session can make all the difference. Talk to them about the fun we’ll have, maybe bribe them with a treat (no judgment here!), and keep the mood light. I’ll share more tips on prepping kids in a future blog post, so stay tuned!
Ready to book your family session or have more questions? Start the process by reaching out here:
https://ryan-bouse-photography.studio.cloudspot.io/lead-forms/v/lf_33c4GtNECeQn8MdPhJ62LXgnqqF9.
I can’t wait to capture your family’s story!
Ryan Bouse