How to Have a Stress-Free Family Photoshoot (Even with Young Kids)
- Louise Hampson
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
Family photoshoots don’t have to be something you keep putting off, worrying that something will go wrong. They don’t have to feel stressful or high-pressure.
They can simply be a chance for you to slow down, be together, and strengthen your connection.
I Know Your Struggle
As a parent, I know how hard it can be to get kids of any age to do what you want sometimes. Add in the fact that you’re paying a lot of money to do something with your kids, and suddenly the pressure feels huge. The anxiety goes through the roof because you don’t want it all to be a complete waste.
I know from experience that this is one of the biggest reasons parents put off booking family photoshoots.
It’s the same reason we’ve sometimes avoided taking our toddler to certain events or places. We know it costs a lot of money, and there’s always the chance he might spend the entire day having a tantrum.
At the end of the day, a professional photoshoot is an investment. But you’re not just paying for someone to press a button. You’re not even just paying for their fancy equipment.
You’re choosing someone who will guide you on how to move and exist in front of the camera. Someone who will create a space where you can forget about the argument in the car, the messy house, and who was supposed to do the dishes. A space where you can simply enjoy your bond, your quirks, and your connection as a family.
It’s All About the Approach
As someone who is neurodivergent, I naturally tend to look at situations differently. I take a different approach to photography than some other people.
Some of what I do isn’t groundbreaking. Some of it is similar to what other photographers also do. But we all have our own way of working.
Creating stress-free family photoshoots is one of the reasons I’m not a studio photographer. Photography studios can be overwhelming places, especially for families or for people who are autistic or sensitive to sensory input.
Lifestyle photography lends itself perfectly to a more relaxed, documentary-style approach. It allows space for movement, play, and real connection.
So let me share my top tips for creating the ultimate stress-free, fun-filled family photoshoot.
Step 1: Choosing Your Photographer
It’s important not to choose a photographer based solely on their images. Of course, you need to love their creative style - but personality matters too.
For example, if a photographer is known for being loud and high-energy, and you have a quiet or shy family, you may feel uncomfortable throughout the session.
That doesn’t mean they’re a bad photographer. It simply means they may not be the right fit for you.
Personally, I’m quite chameleon-like. I’m good at reading people and knowing when someone needs gentle encouragement, light humour, calm reassurance, or a bit more energy.
I don’t like overly directing my clients, but you might prefer someone who gives very clear, constant instructions. Neither approach is wrong - it’s about finding the right match for your family.
Step 2: Photoshoot Prep
This is something I do myself as a photographer too. If I’m having a rough day, I don’t want that energy coming into your session.
Whether you’re driving to your location or having an in-home shoot, take the journey or the 10–15 minutes beforehand to do one simple thing:
Listen to music.
It sounds basic, but music has real power.
Choose something uplifting - not a sad ballad that brings the mood down. We’re using music to build energy and get into the right headspace.
If your family has a favourite song, album, or playlist that makes everyone sing along, use it.
Turn it up. Dance in the living room. You’re welcome to keep music playing during your in-home session - I will 100% be singing along with you. Even if I don’t know the words.
Step 3: Keeping Things Playful
Lifestyle photography isn’t about stiff poses and forced smiles while everyone says “CHEESE” at the camera.
It’s about natural moments.
That doesn’t mean nothing is guided. I blend gentle posing with candid moments, always focusing on keeping things fun and relaxed.
Fun fact: dads are often the stiffest person during a photoshoot. They’re more likely to feel unsure what to do with their hands, their body, or their face.
That’s why I usually start with a simple task or game to break the ice.
One example from a summer session:
I had previously photographed this family for Christmas minis, and dad felt a little uncomfortable then. So this time, we started with something playful. They stood in a line and all flopped backwards onto the sofa at the same time.
Everyone laughed.
Ice broken.
Even better - dad asked if we could do it again because he wanted to improve his fall.
That’s what we’re aiming for: dads channeling their inner Bandit (Bluey’s dad).
“We would recommend Louise! She did a mini photoshoot for us and we are so pleased with the beautiful pictures. We all felt relaxed and had fun doing it. Louise was amazing with our two children too. Thanks so much!”
- Katie T
Step 4: Knowing When to Calm Things Down
Children’s moods can change quickly. Sometimes energy becomes too big, listening disappears, and tensions rise.
When that happens, I use a game that gives children an outlet while bringing things back under control.
On the count of three, they make as much noise as possible.
Then when I shout STOP, they must be completely silent.
We usually play twice.
After that, I transition into something calmer - cuddles, exploring nature, or quieter interactions - to help regulate everyone again.
Step 5: Go With the Flow
Sometimes tears happen.
That’s okay.
Lifestyle family photography is about real life. Real families have ups and downs. Children might show off. They might get shy. They might need a cuddle.
None of that is failure.
It’s part of their story.
One Final Point
My goal is always to create a space where every member of the family feels comfortable being themselves - whether that looks like big, bouncy energy or quiet closeness.
Location truly matters.
That’s why I offer in-home and outdoor sessions. We naturally feel calmer in our own spaces and more relaxed when surrounded by nature.
Creating Images That Feel Timeless
Every family and every session is different.
My job isn’t just to take beautiful photos you’ll cherish forever.
It’s to create an experience where you can relax, have fun, and enjoy who you are together.
If you’d like to experience your own stress-free, fun-filled family photoshoot, use the link below to book your session. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch - I’d love to chat.
“Louise made us feel super comfortable in front of the camera and also managed to capture some lovely ‘real’ moments. We will treasure our pictures. Thank you!”
- Terrie M
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child doesn’t cooperate?
That’s completely okay.
We’ll go with the flow and meet your child where they’re at. Whether that’s walking, exploring, or playing hide and seek, we build the session around them.
You’re welcome to bring a small treat to use after the session as motivation.
Let’s be honest - parenting is at least 50% bribery.
Can we choose between an in-home or outdoor session?
Yes.
Think about where your family feels most comfortable and what kind of setting you’d love your portraits to have.
If you book the Memories or Legacy collection and live within walking distance or a five-minute drive of a favourite outdoor spot, you’re welcome to choose both. This allows us to create a wider variety of images from your session.
What happens if one of my children needs a break?
I’ll usually shift focus to mum and dad for a few minutes while your child rests, explores, or resets.
Breaks are normal and expected.
Where are you based and how far do you travel?
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