A Fool Proof Guide: What to Bring for a Successful Family Photo Session

Must-Have Essentials for Stress-Free,
Picture-Perfect Memories

What to bring to a family photo session? Glad you asked! Prepping for picture day can feel like herding cats, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. As a family photographer, I’ve seen it all (yes, even the mid-session snack meltdowns). The right essentials—like wipes, snacks, and a few secret weapons—can turn a chaotic shoot into a fun, stress-free experience. (I have even more tips here for stress free prep!)

Read on to know what to pack in your bag, so you can focus on capturing genuine smiles instead of scrambling for last-minute fixes. Let’s make some magic!

THE Essentials: Wipes & Stain Remover Stick 

Not many moms leave the house without wipes, but for photo sessions, bringing wipes is essential.  From messy hands, wiping tears, wipes are my #1 recommendation for all mamas to pack in their family photo session bags.   I love these water wipes!

We all know that when it comes to stains, they only happen at the worst possible times, amiright?  So putting the stain stick into your bag should guarantee a mess free outfit for your sessions.  

Backup Outfits: Because Accidents Happen

Just in case the worst case does happen, being prepared will at least alleviate the anxiety.  Pack something you can put your kiddo in that coordinates with the family outfits for the photo session.  Perhaps just purchase an extra outfit and leave the tags on (shh….don’t tell!).  Maybe you buy a second outfit you love just a little less.  Either way, just pack something that you won’t mind making the switch to for your family photo session.  

Stay Hydrated: Don’t Forget the Water Bottles!

When you think of what to bring for a family photo session, this may not be top of mind. But when you are as active during a session as you are with me, I promise you will want them!  Bringing a water bottle to the family photo shoot can help especially during the summer months when those temperatures climbs.  Don’t leave them in the car, pack them in the bag and don’t forget the ice!

Snack Attack: The Best Mess-Free Snacks for Photo Sessions

Okay, this is a big one and I have LOTS of advice here!  After ten years, I think I have seen it all when it comes to snacks so below is my list of tried and true snacks that work. These won’t leave a messy face, colored lips or take forever to chew.  They are satisfying, fun to eat and kids will be back in photo shape in no time!

• Mini Marshmallows
• Cucumbers
• Fruit Snacks
• Cut up pieces of cheese sticks
• Baby puffs
• Yogurt Melts
• Smarties

But they don’t work if you don’t keep the snacks in YOUR POSSESSION.  Don’t hand your kiddo the bag of snacks or the entire cup.  Dole them out yourself, one or two at a time.  

Quick Touch-Ups: Hairbrush, Lipstick & Chapstick

Bring lipstick, a hairbrush, bobby pins, etc. Sometimes you use it & sometimes you won’t. But , it sure is nice to have on had for the just in case moments!

Tissues: A Lifesaver for Little Noses

If you have a little one, this is a must.  If the weather has a chill, also a must.  Keeping them handy, typically in someone’s pocket!

Sun & Bugs Don’t Belong in Your Family Photos—Pack the Protection!

This one is simple enough. If its spring, summer or fall, you want to have your skin protected from the sun & the bugs so bring sunscreen and bug spray and apply BEFORE you get to the session. Best practice, get to the session 10 minutes early and apply!

Comfort Items: A Favorite Toy for Happy Smiles

If your child is a little nervous or shy going into photos, i it can be really helpful to let them cuddle with one of their lovies or favorite toys. This sense of calm can get them to open up much faster. . I’m really good at working with them and making sure we have shots with and without the toy. Try to choose a toy that will photograph well though. A small wooden train or a little stuffed animal looks nicer in photos than a huge superhero man!  And if you have read my blog about why I got into photography, you know that often its the shots with these stuffies that are the ones you will remember!  

Bring the Beats: A Playlist for Instant Dance Parties

I always have music ready to go on my Spotify playlist for kiddos, but I don’t alway know what your kiddos go to song is.  If you have it ready to go, we can take out your phone and create an instant dance party.  All the worry and stress go away and bonus, dance parties are one of my favorite things to photograph.   

The Secret Ingredient: Pack Your Patience!

This might be the most important part of having beautiful family photos. Let your kids be themselves! While it may seem obvious, it’s not always easy. Here are some tips on how to help your kids have a great time at the session. This is a no discipline zone. Yep, I said it. During the session (and probably a couple of hours leading up to the session), try your very hardest not to get mad at, be stern with, or say no to your child or children.

Pro Tip: Keep Everything in an Easy-to-Carry Bag

Pack everything into a bag (other than your patience) that you can carry easily as we do walk around a lot during our photo sessions.  I like to keep active during family sessions and we don’t want to have to re-pack a bag and miss “the” shot!  

Ready to pack everything you need to bring to your family session?

A little preparation goes a long way in making your family photo session fun and stress-free—trust me, knowing what to bring can be a game-changer! Get your essentials, pack your patience (along with a snack bribe or two), and let’s capture some beautiful moments together. 

Ready to make some magic? Contact me today to book your session!