Family & children · Before your session
Getting ready for your photo session
You don’t need to know how to pose or plan perfect outfits. What matters most is that everyone feels comfortable. I offer natural guidance while children can move, laugh, play and cuddle.
Comfort
Choose clothes you’ve already tried on, that fit well and let you move comfortably.
Harmony
Coordinate your colours without dressing the whole family exactly alike.
No pressure
A successful session doesn’t need forced smiles or children who sit perfectly still.
Choosing outfits without the fuss
Start with one piece you really love, then build a palette of two to four complementary shades around it. Natural fabrics and textures add depth without drawing attention away from your faces.
What works well
- Soft, natural or gently colourful tones.
- Linen, cotton, wool, knitwear or lace.
- Plain clothing, perhaps with one patterned piece.
- Comfortable cuts that let you walk, sit and play.
Best avoided where possible
- Large logos, characters and prominent lettering.
- Neon colours or contrasts that draw all the attention.
- Identical outfits for everyone, or entirely black or white clothing.
- Brand-new clothes that haven’t been tried on, or that children find uncomfortable.
Soft & natural
Light & gentle
Warm & rich
Gently preparing children
Describe the session as a chance to spend time together, rather than an exercise in being on their best behaviour. The more free and confident they feel, the more natural their expressions will be.
They’re allowed to be themselves.
A child may need time to watch, move around or take a break. I adapt to their pace and turn the session into games, little challenges and moments of connection. You don’t need to coax a smile out of them for me.
Before you come
Keep naps and meals at their usual times where possible.
What to bring
A non-messy snack, water, wipes and a comfort toy for younger children.
Clothing
Try outfits on a few days beforehand and let children move around in them.
On the day
Avoid threats or forced smiles. A calm, simple approach brings out natural expressions.
Adapting the details to your location
The same principles apply everywhere, but a few practical choices make the session easier and allow more variety in your images.
Simple and comfortable
Photographs on the studio backdrops are often taken in socks or barefoot. Make sure feet and socks are presentable and choose clothing that is easy to adjust. Neutral, natural tones work particularly well with the studio settings.
Free to move
Choose clean but comfortable shoes. Layers are ideal for changeable weather: a cardigan, lovely knitwear or a light jacket rather than a very bulky coat. You can keep a pair of walking shoes in your bag.
Several outfits: a good idea?
It depends on the length and location of your session. A quick change can add variety, but one well-chosen outfit is better than several changes that eat into your photography time.
Accessories, hair and small details
A hat, scarf, piece of jewellery or a few flowers in the hair can add a personal touch. Keep it subtle, though. Choose a hairstyle that feels natural and stands up to movement. Remember hands and nails too, as they often appear in detail shots.
How can we adapt colours to the season?
In spring and summer, fresh shades, flowing fabrics and subtle floral patterns work beautifully. In autumn and winter, think rust, mustard, khaki, burgundy, teal, beige and lovely knitwear. Whatever the season, keep your palette consistent.
The evening before or that morning
Your simple checklist
A few quick checks are all you need. Once you arrive, you can relax: I’ll take care of guiding you.
You don’t have to get everything right before you come.
These tips are here to help, never to impose a style. If you’re choosing between two outfits or your child has particular needs, write to me: we’ll prepare for the session together.