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Let’s set the scene. It’s golden hour in Savannah, you’re frantically ironing the shirt your kid “definitely didn’t forget to hang up,” your husband is grumbling about kickoff, and your toddler is crying because their shoes feel “too spicy.” Sound familiar? Yep, it’s family photo season.

Before you spiral, deep breath. You’re not alone and I’ve got your back. As a family and senior photographer in Savannah, I’ve worked with more squirmy toddlers and skeptical dads than I can count. And guess what? We always get there, and the memories we capture last far beyond the pre-shoot chaos.

Today, I’m sharing real-world advice for getting your crew prepped, dressed, smiling, and actually enjoying their time in front of the camera. No fake cheese faces required.

Why Family Photos Feel So Hard (But Don’t Have to Be)

Let’s be honest. Family photo sessions can feel a little… much. Between coordinating outfits, wrangling kids, convincing your partner this is actually worth their time, and trying to smile while sweating your makeup off in year round Savannah humidity, it can feel like climbing a mountain in heels.

But here’s the thing. Done right, it doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can be fun. If you prioritize connection over perfection, bring the right mindset, and (this is key) work with a photographer you click with, it becomes less of a chore and more of a memory you want to hang on your wall.

Now, let’s dive into the good stuff.

Tips to Actually Enjoy Your Family Photo Session

1. What to Wear: Coordinate, Don’t Match… and Be Comfortable

You do not have to run out and buy everyone Pinterest-perfect outfits. Start with something you love from your own closet – a dress or blouse that makes you feel confident – and build from there.

• Think color palettes, not identical shirts. Matching is cute for holiday pajamas. For everything else, mix tones and textures. Warm neutrals, earthy greens, dusty pinks, soft blues… Pinterest is your best friend here.
• Avoid graphics, neon colors, and cartoon characters. They distract from, well, your actual faces.
• Be comfortable. If your jeans are too tight to breathe, you’re going to look & feel miserable. Choose outfits you can move and laugh in.
• Pro-tip: Start styling with one standout piece (like a floral dress or bold jacket) and build the rest of the outfits around it.

Want more help? Check out my full post on what to wear for family photo sessions.

2. Prep the Kids (and the Partner… Let’s Be Honest)

Talk about the session a LOT before the day arrives. Build it up as something exciting and special.

• Show your kids past family photos. Let them pick between two outfit options. Let them help pack a treat. Give them some sense of ownership in the experience.
• Share your excitement with them. Kids feed off our energy. If you treat it like a big deal in the best way, they’ll show up with good vibes.
• And for the grown-up who maybe isn’t quite on board? Quietly (away from the little ears) let them know this is one of those “smile and fake it” moments for the greater good. Their attitude can influence everyone.

If they’re grumping about kickoff or already planning their escape route, it spreads… fast. So nip that in the bud and remind them that a little cheerfulness for 45 minutes = photos you’ll treasure forever.

3. Skip the “Say Cheese” – Here’s How We Get Natural Smiles

Please, I’m begging you. Don’t yell “say cheese” while jumping behind me like a caffeinated kangaroo.

• Most kids have been trained to pull a fake smile when they hear that phrase. We’re talking squinty eyes and forced grins.
• Instead, let me handle it. I’m a pro at getting real reactions. I use games, prompts, weird noises, and sometimes bribes (we’ll get to that next).
• Let the moment happen. Natural laughter comes when people are relaxed and having fun, not stiff and overly directed.

Trust the process – and the goofy sounds I will inevitably make.

4. Bribes Are Fair Game (and Honestly, Effective)

Big believer in NOT bargaining with your kids? Same. Except… for photoshoots, funerals, and airplanes, I’ll make an exception.

• Pick an incentive ahead of time. Think: trip to Five Below, stop for ice cream, special screen time. Make it clear AND make it known to me so I can echo it when needed.
• With your permission, I’ll even play “bribe judge.” I’ve told many a preschooler, “Only I can decide who gets a prize based on those smiles”… and it works so well.
• Just skip the threats, OK? Threatening to cancel Santa or toss the iPad mid-session rarely goes well and ratchets up the stress for everyone.

Keep it light, keep it positive, and celebrate the smiles when they come.

5. Be On Time and Breathe, Please

Being behind schedule sets the tone. And not in a good way, trust me.

• When you’re late, you roll into the shoot flustered and frustrated. That energy trickles right into your kids (and into the photos).
• Plan to arrive about 10-15 minutes early. Pad in time for that unexpected shoe hunt or drive-thru coffee swing.
• Once you’re with me, let it go. If kids are wiggly or someone’s hair is rogue, guess what? I’ve seen it all and I know how to roll with it.

The most powerful thing you can do? Laugh it off. Honestly. Family sessions are funny. Embrace the chaos. That’s what makes the real moments shine.

Family Photos Matter (Even If They Feel Hard in the Moment)

At the end of the day, these photos aren’t just about Instagram grids or holiday cards. They’re a snapshot in time. Your babies (big or small) as they are right now, your partner before they go gray (or grayer), you with your family instead of always behind the camera.

So… take the deep breath. Prep as best you can. Then let the session unfold. I’ll guide you through it, keep things joyful, and capture the magic that happens in between the perfect poses.

Ready to Make Some Beautiful Memories?

If you’re thinking about booking family photos in Savannah, I’d love to walk alongside you and make the whole process easy, effortless, and yes… actually fun.

You can check out my family sessions page here and reach out with questions any time.

And remember – be on time. Don’t say cheese. And a little ice cream reward never hurt either.