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What To Wear & How to Prepare for a Family Portrait Shoot

As a San Francisco Bay Area family photographer of 20+ years who has seen it all (including the time a toddler decided to give her bangs an impromptu chop right before our session), I know that the best family photos happen when we embrace the beautiful mess of real life.



The Secret Sauce to Amazing Family Photos

Remember that time during your first family portrait shoot when your little one refused to smile and then burst into the most genuine giggle fit when the camera was put away? That's exactly what we are after! Some of my all-time favorite shots have been the "in-between" moments - the nose wrinkles, the spontaneous hugs, and yes, even the occasional meltdown (trust me, you'll laugh about it later!).


Cute girl sits on stool in hat with bear during candid photography moment with jody holman
Bring the Stuffies to your Shoot
girl snuggles teddy and picks her nose in a candid family portrait moment
The Fabulous In Between Moments of a Family Portrait

Let's incorporate activities your family loves into your portrait shoot:

- Bubble-blowing championships

- Soccer ball keepie-uppies

- Story time snuggles

- Dance party mayhem

- Whatever makes your crew light up!


Family Photography Style Guide Made Simple

  • Coordinate colors like you are painting a sunset, not dressing a boy band (read: solids over patterns, simple over complicated, and not too “matchy”)

  • Choose comfort over perfection (because nobody looks good in shoes that hurt)

  • Layer up like a pro (Bay Area weather is as unpredictable as a toddler's mood)

  • Keep accessories simple (save the statement necklace that doubles as a teething toy for another day)

Coordinated colors for a family taking a family portrait
Color Coodinated Family

Pre-Session Family Portrait Success Tips:

1. Feed all humans (hangry is not photogenic)

2. Pack snack bribes (I mean... rewards)

3. Bring beloved stuffies or toys (they make great photo bombers)

4. Arrive early (because Murphy's Law loves family photos)

Remember: These sessions aren't about perfect poses or matching outfits - they're about capturing your family's unique story, complete with all its wonderful quirks and spontaneous moments.


Ready to create some magic? Let's make memories that'll have you smiling (and maybe crying happy tears) for years to come! Book your photo session today and let's capture your family's perfectly imperfect moments together!


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