Family photos: Five stress-free tips to success

If I could choose between stabbing a fork in my eye and doing family photos, I would choose the fork. However, family photos (even with toddlers) are a necessary evil. You gotta have them. So, I’ve got five tips to make the experience a happy one. Check it out.

So, we’ve all been there. It’s family photo day. You spend all week getting haircuts and organizing outfits. On the day of, you end of yelling at your kids to smile and trying to pretend for at least one hour that you have a happy functioning family. Yeah, well, I didn’t want history to repeat itself, so I made a few changes that made a world of a difference. Here’s what I did.

Tip #1: Don’t overthink the outfits

Whether you believe it or not, you don’t need to buy brand new outfits for every person. Just find neutral solid colors. You can even do something with a small print too. More than anything, you just want everyone to be comfortable. There is no rule. Everyone can be wearing their PJs or shorts. Who cares? Do what you want but you don’t need to spend a fortune doing it.

Tip #2: Don’t leave haircuts for the same day

This is probably self-explanatory but if you try to do haircuts the same day as the photo session, you’ll get burned out for sure. Within the same week is perfect.

Tip #3: Let your photographer do the work

This will solve most of the stresses related to family photos. Don’t worry about getting your kids to smile. Stop trying to position everyone. And don’t worry about the lighting. Let the photographer do his/her job and you just smile. That’s why you’re paying them, right? Our photographer did an amazing job and if you hire the right professional, it will make your life so much easier.

Tip #4: Pick a location close to home

If it will take you more than 30 minutes to get to your photo session location, it is too far. By the time you get there, everyone will be super grumpy. We picked a quaint wooded park about 10 minutes from our house. Don’t draw out these family photos any longer than you have to.

Tip #5: Bribery works best

Sometimes kids need a bit of motivation to be on their best behavior. Our kids knew that if they wanted ice cream afterwards, they had to smile. Of course, it doesn’t always work but it’s worth a try. Think of what your kids want most and use that as your bribe.

Bonus tip: Stop comparing family photos

Who cares if your family photo isn’t as cute as the one your neighbor posted on Facebook? If you are happy with your family photos, then that is all that matters.

What ideas do you have for planning a stress-free family photo session? Leave your comments below.

Related link: Your soon-to-be favorite family tradition