Getting ready for family photos can feel like a lot.
Between choosing outfits, packing bags, organising the kids, and getting everyone out the door on time, there’s usually plenty to think about before your session. But before we talk about what to bring, I want to remind you of the most important thing:
Bring yourself, arrive on time, and come in a good mood.
Honestly, that’s one of the best things you can do for beautiful photographs.
As a family photographer, I can tell you that children pick up on our energy. When parents arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the experience, everything feels easier.
That said, there are a few small things that can make a big difference during your session. I always recommend packing these essentials in advance and keeping them together in a small bag that’s easy to carry.
1. A change of clothes for the kids
If your children are participating in the photo session, always (always!) bring a spare outfit.
Kids slip. Kids get wet. Someone sits in mud. Someone spills a drink. You simply never know what might happen.
The spare outfit doesn’t need to be perfect. Keep it simple and comfortable. Having something to change into is always better than having nothing at all if an unexpected accident happens.
2. Lip balm, or lipstick
Dry lips are one of those little details that can become more noticeable in photographs.
A quick touch-up with lip balm, lipstick, or anything hydrating can make a difference and help you look and feel your best throughout the session.
3. A small hairbrush
You may leave the house looking perfectly polished, but after a car ride, a windy walk, or a quick cuddle with little ones, hair can have a mind of its own.
A small hairbrush takes up almost no space and can work wonders before we start shooting or during a quick break.
4. A neutral hair tie or hair clip
As much as I love children’s hair flowing naturally in the breeze, sometimes the wind has other plans.
Children’s hair is often very fine and can easily blow across their faces, covering their eyes and making it difficult to capture those beautiful expressions. A neutral-coloured hair tie or clip can be a lifesaver, especially for little girls.
It gives us more time to focus on what really matters during your session, without the need to constantly adjust hair that’s blowing across little faces.
5. A water bottle
The number of times I’ve heard “Mum, I’m thirsty!” during a session is countless.
A lightweight water bottle is one of the simplest things you can bring, but it can make a huge difference in keeping little ones comfortable and happy throughout the photo shoot.
6. A small, non-messy treat
Towards the end of a session, some children need a little extra encouragement to keep going.
A small, non-messy snack can be incredibly helpful. For babies, it might be a cracker to keep them content before their next meal. For older children, it could be a favourite treat that feels special.
The key is choosing something easy to eat without leaving sticky hands or colourful stains.
The Bottom Line
Bring your smiles, your patience, and your willingness to simply enjoy time together. Pack these few practical essentials, and you’ll be prepared for whatever the session brings.
The rest? Leave that to me.
My job is to guide you, help everyone feel comfortable, and capture the love, laughter, and little moments that make your family uniquely yours.
ABOUT ME
I’m a family, maternity and newborn photographer based in Cronulla, Sydney, capturing timeless, heartfelt family photography for mothers who want to be part of the memories with their families. Through relaxed family photos, maternity sessions and in-home newborn photography, I create soft, natural images that tell the story of your family—so when you look back years from now, you’ll see not only how much your children have grown, but the love, connection and presence that surrounded them every step of the way.
