How to Prepare Kids (and Grandparents) for a Family Shoot
Family photoshoots bring together people with very different needs. A two-year-old wants to run and eat sand. A teenager would rather be anywhere else. Grandpa wants somewhere to sit and isn't sure about walking down a dune. And you're trying to keep everyone happy while also looking nice.
The good news: a little preparation goes a long way. Here's my practical guide to getting kids and grandparents ready for a family shoot, so the day feels easy and fun rather than stressful.
Before the shoot
Pick the right time of day
Timing makes a huge difference, especially for little ones.
- Work around naps and meals. A tired or hungry toddler is no fun for anyone, including the toddler. If your child is at their best first thing, an early morning session is perfect.
- Think about grandparents' energy. Some older family members prefer mornings; others are happier later in the day.
- Golden hour is lovely, but not essential. In summer, sunsets are close to 8pm in December and January, which can be late for small children. A morning session might suit your family better.
For a feel of what an early session is like, read about a morning on Noordhoek Beach [LINK WHEN PUBLISHED: /blog/early-morning-noordhoek-beach-shoot].
Choose a location that works for everyone
A beautiful beach is wonderful, but if Gran struggles with soft sand or steep paths, it may not be the best choice. Think about:
- Access and parking. How far is the walk?
- Somewhere to sit. A bench, a low wall, a picnic blanket.
- Shelter from wind. The south-easter can make an exposed beach tough for older family members and small children.
A garden or home session can be ideal for families with very young or less mobile members.
Sort the outfits early
Leave outfits until the morning of the shoot and you'll be stressed before you even leave the house. Plan them a few days ahead, try them on, and make sure everyone is comfortable. My guide on what to wear for family photos in Cape Town [LINK WHEN PUBLISHED: /blog/what-to-wear-family-photos-cape-town] has lots of practical advice.
Preparing young kids
Talk about it beforehand
Tell them what's going to happen in simple terms: "We're going to the beach to play, and a friendly photographer is coming to take pictures of us having fun." Framing it as an outing rather than a photoshoot takes the pressure off.
Don't promise "good behaviour" or ask for smiles
It's tempting to tell kids to "be good" and "smile nicely". Honestly, it often backfires. Forced smiles look forced, and pressure makes kids clam up. I'd much rather you let them be themselves. I'll handle the smiles.
Bring snacks (the right kind)
Snacks are a secret weapon for a quick reset. Choose ones that don't stain or crumble everywhere: think apple slices, rice cakes or crackers rather than chocolate or red juice. Keep them in a bag, out of sight, until needed.
Bring a comfort item
A favourite teddy or blanket can help a shy child feel safe, and it can make for a sweet photo too.
Let them warm up
Most young children need a few minutes to get used to me. I'll usually spend the first part of the session chatting and playing before I start photographing seriously. If your child hides behind your leg at first, that's completely normal.
Preparing older kids and teens
Give them some say
Older kids and teens are much more cooperative when they feel involved. Let them choose their outfit (within your colour palette), or pick a part of the location they like.
Set a clear time frame
"It's about 45 minutes, and then we're going for pizza" is much easier to agree to than an open-ended "photos". A reward afterwards doesn't hurt, either.
Let them be themselves
Teens can be self-conscious. I won't make them do anything embarrassing. Usually, once they see the session is relaxed and fun, they loosen up. Sometimes they even get competitive about who can make the little ones laugh the most.
Preparing grandparents
Explain what to expect
Grandparents may be used to formal, posed studio photos. Let them know this session will be relaxed and natural, with lots of walking, chatting and playing, and a few classic group shots too.
Plan for comfort
- Comfortable shoes for walking on sand or grass.
- A warm layer, especially near the sea, where it can be cooler than inland.
- A place to sit. I'll always make sure there are seated options during the session.
- Water and any medication they might need.
Give them time with the grandkids
Some of the most beautiful moments in a family session happen between grandparents and grandchildren. I always try to give them a few minutes together. Encourage grandparents to simply play, hug and chat, as they normally would.
On the day
Arrive a little early
Rushing makes everyone tense. Give yourselves time to park, walk to the spot, and catch your breath.
Keep the energy light
Kids pick up on stress. If you're relaxed, they're more likely to be relaxed too. It's okay if things don't go to plan. Some of the best photos come from the unexpected moments.
Take breaks when needed
A quick snack break, a drink of water, or a moment for Grandpa to sit down is completely fine. We'll pick up where we left off.
Trust the process
It's my job to guide the session and capture the real moments. You don't need to manage everyone. Just enjoy being together. I wrote about why I work this way in why I photograph families the way I do: https://carmenlorraine.com/blog/natural-family-photography-approach
A quick checklist
- Choose a time that suits the youngest and oldest family members.
- Pick an accessible location with somewhere to sit.
- Sort outfits a few days ahead.
- Pack snacks, water, wipes, layers and a comfort item.
- Talk to the kids about it as a fun outing.
- Let grandparents know what to expect.
- Arrive early and keep it relaxed.
FAQ
What if my toddler has a meltdown?
It happens, and it's okay. We'll take a break, have a snack, and try again. Meltdowns rarely last long, and the happy moments afterwards often make for some of the best photos.
Can grandparents join just part of the session?
Yes. If they'd prefer a shorter time, we can photograph the group shots and grandparent moments first, and then they can relax while the rest of the family continues.
My teen doesn't want to be there. Will the photos still work?
Usually, yes. Once teens see that the session is relaxed and not cringeworthy, most of them come around. I won't force them into anything uncomfortable.
What if the weather is bad on the day?
I'll check the forecast and get in touch if conditions look poor, especially if it's very windy or wet. We can move to a more sheltered spot or reschedule.
Ready for your family session?
If you'd love relaxed, natural photos of the whole family, from the littlest to the oldest, send me a message on WhatsApp, request a quote, or get in touch through my contact page. Browse my family gallery for inspiration.