5 Secrets to a Worry Free and Enjoyable Family Photoshoot
Family photoshoots are all about capturing those special, everyday moments that you’ll want to look back on for years to come. Let’s face it – the idea of getting everyone together and in front of the camera can feel a little daunting. Whether it’s wrangling kids, coordinating outfits, or just worrying about how the session will go, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: a stress-free family photoshoot is absolutely possible!
As a Calgary-based photographer with over a decade of experience, I’ve worked with families of all sizes and understand the challenges that come with capturing the perfect moments. Here are my top 5 tips to help make your family photoshoot relaxed, fun, and full of genuine smiles.
I just want to take a moment to give a huge shout-out to this wonderful family in the photo examples of this blog. I had the privilege of photographing their kids when they were so little, and this session, we recreated one of the special moments they have proudly displayed on their wall. It was such a heartfelt experience, seeing how much their children have grown over the years. Being able to capture these milestones and witness the changes in their lives is one of the reasons I love what I do so much. There’s something truly magical about freezing these moments in time—moments that will become precious memories to cherish for years to come.
1. Choose a Comfortable Location
A great family photoshoot in Calgary starts with the right location! Calgary, Alberta, offers stunning photography spots, from the scenic trails of Griffith Woods Park to the cozy comfort of your own home. Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, park settings, or urban backdrops, the key is choosing a place where your family feels at ease. As a Calgary family photographer, I’ve helped families find the perfect spots that match their style—whether it’s a natural, peaceful setting or a more vibrant, urban vibe. A familiar and beautiful location makes a big difference, helping everyone feel relaxed and in the moment.
2. Plan Ahead - But Keep It Simple
When it comes to family photoshoots, less is often more—especially for parents with young children. I know how easy it is to get caught up in the details, but a shorter, focused photoshoot session can lead to better results. For families with little ones, I recommend a 30-minute session that allows us to capture those sweet moments without stressing over every shot. Before the shoot, we’ll discuss a simple game plan to ensure we’re prepared and able to stay relaxed throughout the session.
There’s no need to over-schedule or overthink—let’s keep it easy and fun! As a mom photographer in Calgary, I understand how stressful it can be when kids aren’t cooperating. But don’t worry—I have a few tricks up my sleeve to keep them engaged and help capture those real, candid moments. Plus, I’m quick and efficient, so you’ll get stunning family photos without feeling rushed.
3. Wear What Feels Right
Outfits can make or break a family photoshoot, but don’t stress about matching perfectly. The goal is to coordinate colors and styles that reflect your family’s personality and make everyone feel comfortable and confident. I always encourage clients to choose clothes they love and feel at ease in—looking natural and effortless is key!
When choosing your outfits, consider how they’ll work with the location of our photoshoot. For example, if we’re shooting in a natural outdoor setting, earthy tones like greens, browns, and warm neutrals can complement the surroundings beautifully. Bold colors, on the other hand, can really pop against a more neutral background. As your Calgary family photographer, I can guide you in selecting colors that will make you stand out while ensuring everything feels cohesive with the environment.
Don’t forget to add texture and layers! Mixing fabrics like knits, denim, or soft materials can create visual interest in your photos without distracting from the moment. Comfort is key—especially if we’re doing an active session with young kids, or if it’s a bit chilly or hot. Make sure everyone’s dressed appropriately for the weather to keep things fun and comfortable!
I’m always here to help with outfit planning, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need suggestions or guidance for what to wear to your family photoshoot in Calgary!
4. Let’s Keep It Fun – Play, Laugh, and Be You
One of the things I love most about family photography is capturing those real, unposed moments. You don’t need to worry about sitting perfectly still or forcing those “perfect” smiles. As a Calgary family photographer, I have a few techniques to help everyone naturally smile and engage with each other without the need for constant directions like “Look here!” or “Say cheese!”
The best photos happen when you’re genuinely enjoying your time together. Let your kids be themselves—let them play, laugh, and enjoy the moment. I’ll be there to catch those spontaneous, beautiful interactions that make family photos so special.
The goal isn’t to create stiff, overly posed images, but to document the real connection and emotion between you. When everyone feels comfortable and relaxed, that’s when the magic happens. It’s all about having fun and being in the moment. You don’t need to do anything extra—just enjoy some quality family time, and I’ll capture the memories as they unfold naturally. Trust me, when you focus on having fun and being yourselves, those are the moments that’ll shine through in your family photoshoot.
5. Trust the Process and Relax
Trusting the process is key to having a stress-free family photoshoot. I totally understand that being in front of the camera can make you feel a little nervous or unsure, and you’re definitely not alone in that! Pretty much everyone feels that way at first. But don’t worry—I'm here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t need to stress over getting the perfect pose or finding the 'right' spot—I’ve got it all covered.
As your Calgary family photographer, I’ll direct you in a way that feels natural and relaxed, so you won’t feel stiff or awkward. Whether it’s suggesting playful movements or simply guiding you to a more flattering position, my job is to make you feel at ease. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about a thing. Just focus on enjoying your time together, and I’ll capture those beautiful, authentic moments.
Trusting the process and letting go of any nerves will allow us to create real memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
