Tacoma Family Photographer
What Family Photo Sessions Are Actually Like, From the Moment You Arrive Until You Leave
If you have never had a family photo session with me, you might be wondering what actually happens once you get there.
Do the kids need to stand still?
Will you know what to do?
What if everyone feels awkward?
What if your toddler wants nothing to do with the camera?
As a Puyallup family photographer, I hear these questions all the time. Most families arrive feeling a little nervous about their session, especially if it has been awhile since they had professional photos taken.
The good news is that family sessions do not need to feel stiff, formal, or overwhelming!
Here is exactly what you can expect from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave.
Arriving at the Location
When you first arrive, you do not need to get out of the car and immediately start smiling.
We take a minute.
I greet everyone, check in, and give the kids a little time to look around and get comfortable.
Some kids walk right up and start talking.
Others need a few minutes to stay with Mom or Dad.
Both are completely normal.
I never expect children to instantly feel comfortable around a stranger holding a camera.
The beginning of the session is usually about building trust, not taking perfect pictures.
I might ask them about their favorite animal, school, or what they brought with them.
Sometimes they show me their toy.
Sometimes they hide.
Sometimes they start telling me an entire story before we have taken a single photo.
This time helps me learn about them and where I need to meet them at for this session.
Meeting the Kids Where They Are
Every child comes into the session with a different energy.
Some are excited.
Some are shy.
Some are tired.
Some are full of energy after sitting in the car.
My job is to expect all of it, and go with whatever they bring me.
I do not need young kids to act a certain way before we can get started.
I pay attention to how they respond to me, how they move, and what makes them feel safe and comfortable.
If they need to stay close to you, we go there.
If they want to snuggle mom, we use that.
If they want to run, climb, spin, or explore, I can work with that too.
The session does not depend on everyone acting the part.
It works because I tailor the session to your family.
We follow their lead.
John Smith
VIDEOGRAPHER
Known for his attention to detail and ability to create visually stunning compositions, Bella has worked on a wide range of projects, including weddings, music videos, corporate events, and short films. Her versatile skill set allows her to adapt to various environments and effectively collaborate with clients to bring their visions to life.
Bella Roswald
VIDEOGRAPHER
John Smith is a passionate videographer with a keen eye for capturing captivating moments. With over five years of experience in the industry, John has developed a unique storytelling style that beautifully combines creativity and technical expertise.
This is a paragraph. Double-click or click edit and enter your own text.
Bella Roswald
VIDEOGRAPHER
Known for his attention to detail and ability to create visually stunning compositions, Bella has worked on a wide range of projects, including weddings, music videos, corporate events, and short films. Her versatile skill set allows her to adapt to various environments and effectively collaborate with clients to bring their visions to life.
John Smith
VIDEOGRAPHER
John Smith is a passionate videographer with a keen eye for capturing captivating moments. With over five years of experience in the industry, John has developed a unique storytelling style that beautifully combines creativity and technical expertise.
This is a paragraph. Double-click or click edit and enter your own text.
The First Few Minutes
The first few minutes are usually simple.
Walking together.
Holding hands.
Snuggling in close.
I might ask everyone at look at each other instead of the camera.
I might have one child choose who gets the biggest hug.
I might ask dad to pick up a kiddo or let the kids decide who should spin first.
These early prompts help everyone stop thinking about the camera and start interacting naturally.
Nobody needs to know how to pose.
That is my job.
I guide where to go, where to look, what to do with your hands, and how to move.
You will never be just standing there wondering what to do.
Games, Movement, and Play
Family sessions work best when kids have something to do.
That is why I encourage games, movement, and playful interaction throughout the session.
We might race.
We might take a silly walk.
We might see who can make Dad laugh first.
I often let the kids tell me what mom and Dad should do whenit is their turn.
That usually gets everyone excited because kids love being in charge for a minute.
The goal is not to create chaos.
The goal is to give your family something to do together so the interaction feel natural.
Movement also helps kids feeel comfortable and keeps the session from feeling too long.
The Prompts I Use
Prompts are different from poses - though we do utilize some poses as well.
A pose tells everyone how exactly to stand and smile. Much like the standard "Look here and smile"
A prompt gives your brain something to respond to.
I might ask you to whisper something silly to your child.
I might tell the kids to squeeze Mom as tight as they can.
I might ask Dad to show everyone his best dance move.
I might have you walk slowly together while you talk about dinner plans.
These prompts create real interaction because your family is relaxed instead of performing.
That is usually where my favorite images come from.
Why Nobody Needs to Worry
Family photo sessions do not require your family to act any differently than they normally would.
You do not need to train your children (or husband) beforehand.
You do not need to practice holding a decent fake smile.
You do not need to spend the entire session wondering whether everything is working.
I got you.
I guide you.
I meet the kids where they are.
I make adjustments when we need them.
I keep the session moving without rushing anyone.
The whole experience should feel easier than you expected.
If you are looking for a Puyallup family photographer or Tacoma family photographer who prioritizes relaxed sessions, playful, and calm, I would love to work with your family.
