The Ultimate Family
Photoshoot Prep Guide
Because your family’s love story deserves to be documented properly!
Hi mama, I’m so excited you are here. Firstly, I want to thank you for trusting me to capture the loves of your life. I take my job very seriously and my goal is to give you photos that you will want to brag about forever!
Getting ready for a family photoshoot should feel exciting, not overwhelming. This guide gives you practical steps and local tips to make the day smooth and enjoyable. From planning and outfit choices to helping kids (and pets) thrive in front of the camera, you’ll find everything you need to create relaxed, true-to-your-family images in Montreal. Prepare a cup of your fav. beverage and enjoy!
How do you plan a successful family photoshoot in Montreal?
Good planning sets the tone for the whole session. A little preparation reduces stress, keeps everyone comfortable, and helps the photographer capture natural moments instead of forced poses. With a clear plan you’ll enjoy the day more and end up with photos that really reflect your family.
What are the key steps to prepare your family for a photoshoot?
To prepare your family for a photoshoot, follow these essential steps:
Gather necessary items: Create a checklist, outfits (plus a spare), simple props, diapers/wipes, and any personal items that help everyone feel at ease.
Communicate with the photographer (aka me): Share your vision, your expectations and any must-have shots (if you have). The more I know, the better we can plan the flow of the session.
Set expectations: Brief your family on what to expect during our time together so no one is surprised on the day. I find that the more I explain my kids what’s going to happen, the more cooperative they become.
For in-home sessions: I recommend you take a look at my prep guide 👉 How to Prepare for a montreal In-Home Photoshoot: Practical Steps for Authentic Family Photos
These small steps help build a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can be themselves and enjoy the experience.
Why is preparation essential for authentic and relaxed family photos?
When you prepare, there’s less stress and more room for real moments, laughter, hugs, little interactions that tell your family’s story. Organization keeps your focus on connection instead of logistics, and that’s what makes photos feel genuine and timeless.
Now that we’ve covered why preparation matters, let’s talk about what to wear.
What should families wear for a coordinated and comfortable photoshoot?
Outfits shape the overall look of your photos. Aim for a coordinated palette and comfortable clothes so everyone looks cohesive and feels like themselves. Thoughtful choices make the images feel intentional without being stiff. But the most important thing is for you to pick your outfit first mama, and work the family’s around it. You are the rockstar of the photoshoot and ✨I want you to look & feel like the goddess that you are✨
How to choose the right colour palette and textures for family outfits?
When selecting a color palette for your family outfits, consider the following tips:
Color harmony: Pick a few complementary colours that suit your location, soft neutrals work beautifully in nature, while richer tones can pop in urban settings.
Texture combinations: Mix textures (denim, cotton, knits) to add visual depth without clashing, small texture differences photograph really well.
Seasonal considerations: Match the season with fabrics and layers: lighter fabrics for summer, layered looks for fall and winter.
These choices help your family look put-together while still feeling natural in the photos. Head up to Pinterest and look for “The season of your photoshoot + family outfit ideas” and you’ll find hundreds of inspiration images that will definitely help you plan for a cohesive and beautiful wardrobe for your whole family. And I bet you won’t even need to go shopping around, just a little help mix and matching will do the trick!
What are the big wardrobe no-nos for family photos?
To ensure your family photos turn out beautifully, avoid the following wardrobe choices:
Logos and neon colours: These draw the eye away from faces and feel distracting in portraits.
Overly trendy styles: Choose classic pieces that will still feel timeless in a few years.
Uncomfortable clothing: If someone’s fidgeting or tugging at their outfit, it shows, pick clothes everyone can move and play in.
Steering clear of these pitfalls keeps the focus on your family and the moments between you.
How can you prepare children to enjoy and participate in family photos?
Kids respond best when they know what to expect and still have room to play. Involving them in the process and keeping things light helps create joyful, authentic photos.
THE SUPER-DUPER-MEGA-IMPORTANT BASICS:
To keep kids happy and engaged during the photoshoot, consider these strategies:
Kids will be kids, let them run, jump and have fun. I want their true personalities to come out
Let's go with the flow and use re-direction rather than discipline, unless it's for safety reasons.
Don't force a smile or "say cheese", that will only give you awkward photos (think of Chandler😬)
Show them your love, hug them, smell them, hold hands
Imperfection is beautiful
Potty jokes and silly behaviour is allowed. That's when real laughter comes up!
Trust the process and trust me! Even chaotic moments can become beautiful images
These techniques help kids relax and be themselves in front of the camera.
Which SNACKS AND COMFORT ITEMS Should you bring to the session?
Please bring easy, non-messy snacks = great backup. Think apple slices, grapes cut in halves or marshmallows. Nothing sticky that can get stuck in their teeth like crackers
Only bring comfort items if you're ok with them showing up in the photos
Hide both until actually needed
Emergency supplies: Bring a small kit with tissues, a hairbrush, band-aids, and any necessary medications is always handy. With kids, you never know 😅
How to communicate with your photographer to manage children's expectations?
Effective communication with me is key to managing children's expectations. Let’s discuss the following points:
Setting clear expectations: Explain the session plan to your children, how long you’ll be and what kind of activities will happen.
Discussing concerns: Share any worries (camera shyness, naps, allergies) so I can adapt the approach.
Building rapport: I will introduce myself to the kids and give them a little time and space so they can get aclimated to the place and myself.
Open communication makes the day smoother and the photos more relaxed.
What are the best practices for including pets in your family photography session?
Pets add personality, but they do need a bit of extra planning. With the right prep, they’ll be a natural part of your family portraits.
How to groom and train pets for a smooth photoshoot experience?
To prepare your pets for the photoshoot, consider the following grooming and training tips:
Grooming timeline: Book a groom or brush-up a day or two before the session so your pet looks their best without post-groom fuss.
Basic training tips: Run through simple commands and practice brief stays so your pet can be guided gently during shots.
Comfort items for pets: Bring a favorite toy, blanket, or leash to help them feel secure in a new setting.
These steps will help your pet stay calm and cooperative while we capture their character.
What essential pet props and accessories should you bring?
When including pets in your family photos, consider bringing the following props and accessories:
Toys and treats: Quick rewards keep attention and make positive associations with the shoot.
Leashes and collars: Have sturdy gear ready, especially for public spaces or busy locations.
Comfort items: Familiar blankets or beds can make your pet feel at ease in front of the camera.
With these basics on hand, your pet will be ready to join the family story in your photos.
How do you ensure a smooth and enjoyable family photo day?
A smooth photo day comes down to timing, location, and a little practical preparation. Think logistics ahead of time so you can focus on enjoying the moments on the day.
SIMPLE REMINDERS
If you're unsure of what to do, connect with someone (hug, tickle, kiss, look at them)
Look at your kiddos as if they're the cutest and funniest thing ever (because they are)
If a kid resists a direction, don't stress or force it. We'll try something else
If your child does something unexpected, go with it
Don't tell the kids there will be no discipline or things will escalate pretty fast lol!
Please avoid bribes. Avoid promising treats after every photo. If you want to do that, say it just once at the beginning of the session. Let the session be the reward (dedicated play time and attention from their parents? Yes, please!)
What are the ideal timing and location considerations for your session?
When planning your photoshoot, consider the following timing and location tips:
Golden hour benefits: If you are into that golden warm light that makes everyone look like movie stars, then an outdoor afternoon session is for you.
The beauty of your decor: If you prefer to showcase your decor, your style and capture all of these for the future, then your house makes the perfect backdrop for an in-home morning photoshoot.
Location scouting: I have multiple incredible location where I take my clients. They are my tried and true places, I know the lighting, the best pockets and my past clients loved them. But I always ask my new clients to let me know if there’s a special place where they’d like to do the photoshoot, and we can definitely evaluate it together!
Weather considerations: If we’re doing an outdoor photoshoot and the forecast announces light rain, I recommend go with it. I have several clear umbrellas that will make for the most magical photos. If the rain is a heavy one, we can re-schedule it for another day!
What Happens After the Session?
Once the magic is captured, I’ll work on professionally editing your images with care and a whole lot of love. Within a few weeks, you’ll receive an online gallery where you can:
Download your favourite images
Order fine art prints or wall art directly from your gallery (yes, you deserve to be in the photo albums!)
Share them with friends and family who are just as obsessed with your baby as you are
Not a “Camera Person”? That’s Totally Fine.
So many moms tell me:
“I feel so awkward in front of the camera.”
“I don’t usually like how I look pregnant.”
And I get it. Maybe you are not use to have your photos taken (I know I don’t because I’m the camera woman in my house 🥲). But I promise: I’ll guide you every step of the way. I’ll use prompts, compliment your best angles, fix your hair and help you feel confident and relaxed.
You’ll look back and be so glad you did this.
Embrace the Experience: Relax and Trust Me!
The most important 'prep' is often mental: allow yourself to relax and fully immerse in the experience. Trust my expertise in guiding the session, connecting with your kids, and finding the best light and angles. Your calm demeanour will help everyone stay settled, and these genuine, unposed moments of connection are what truly make for beautiful, authentic images. Remember to enjoy this fleeting time and let me capture the magic.
the fun part begins now, mama!
Get the fam ready and let’s have some fun together. All of these are just recommendations, at the end of the day I want you all to feel comfortable and have lots of fun. If you have any questions, please reach out to me ♥️
Jen!