My tips for Before and During Your Session Family portraits are an opportunity to celebrate your family’s unique connection. With personalized planning and mindfulness, we can ensure the experience is enjoyable and the results are stunning.

Mom’s outfit comes first! Start by selecting an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Once you’ve chosen your look, build the family’s wardrobe around it by coordinating colors and styles.

Steam or iron clothes the night before. Wrinkles can distract from an otherwise polished look. Take the time to steam or iron everyone’s clothing and hang the outfits to keep them crisp and ready to go.

Eat before your session! Make sure everyone eats before the session to avoid low energy or crankiness. A balanced meal will keep everyone feeling positive and ready to participate. For kids, pack a few non-messy snacks like crackers or fruit to have on hand if needed.

I plan for breaks with little ones. Children may need a breather during the session, so I plan for short breaks to let them play or recharge. This keeps the experience fun and ensures authentic, happy moments in your photos and you don't have to worry about keeping them perfectly still during your session.

Avoid last-minute hair color changes. If you’re considering a hair color update, schedule it a few weeks before your session. This allows time for adjustments and ensures you feel like yourself in the photos.

Skip DIY self-tanner. While a natural glow is lovely, self-tanner can sometimes appear streaky or orange in photos. If you’d like a sun-kissed look, opt for a professional spray tan or embrace your natural skin tone for a timeless result.

Treat yourself to hair and makeup. Professional hair and makeup can enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. If your going to use pro services, do a trial run to ensure you like the results.

Stay relaxed and positive. Focus on enjoying the time with your family. Laugh, play, and connect naturally—these moments often create the best photos. Trust me to guide you into poses that feel authentic.

Be flexible. Sometimes the unexpected—like a child’s idea, giggle between siblings, or a spontaneous hug—becomes the highlight of the session. Embrace these moments with me, as they often result in the most heartfelt images.

Work with me! If you’re in Western Pennsylvania, including Grove City, Slippery Rock, Mercer and surrounding areas, I specialize in creating relaxed, authentic family portraits that tell your story.

I’ll guide you every step of the way ensuring your session feels effortless and fun. Let’s start planning your family portraits today!