1. Let Go of the “Perfect Photo” Pressure
If you show up thinking everyone needs to smile at the camera at the same time, you’re setting yourself up for stress (and maybe some fruit-snack bribery gone sideways). The most magical photos aren’t posed—they’re when your daughter is twirling, your son is cracking up at your partner’s silly dance moves, or when you're caught mid-cuddle in a moment you didn’t even know I was photographing.
Your family doesn’t need to perform. They just need to be themselves. That’s where the magic lives.
2. Embrace the Mini Meltdowns
Yes, someone will probably cry. Maybe even you (just kidding… maybe).
But honestly? Meltdowns are part of the story. And they often lead to the sweetest moments. That little forehead resting on your shoulder, the comforting hug, the wipe of a tear—that’s love in motion. That’s the stuff you’ll want to remember.
3. Don’t Try to “Fix” Everything
Parents often rush to smooth hair, pull down dresses, or stop a “weird face.” But sometimes, those quirky little things—the gap-toothed grin, the wild curls, the upside-down sunglasses—are what you’ll treasure most.
I’m not after perfection. I’m after connection. Realness. Personality. That’s what makes a photo feel alive.
4. Move Around. Play. Be Silly.
Let the kids run. Toss them in the air. Play tag. Blow raspberries. Snuggle. I’ll guide you into moments that feel like you—not stiff poses. Movement is everything. Not only does it relax everyone, it makes the images so much more dynamic and full of life.
And hey—if your Minneapolis family session ends with everyone barefoot, grass-stained, and giggling? We nailed it.
5. Snacks, Bribes & Backup Outfits Are Welcome
No shame in the game. Pack the fruit snacks, the lollipops, the “special treat” you said they’d get after. You’re not failing—you’re being strategic. And if someone needs to change halfway through because they rolled in dirt or a rogue juice box exploded? We roll with it. Some of my favorite photos happen after a wardrobe plot twist.
Let’s get one thing straight: if you’re dreaming of your kids wearing matching linen rompers while frolicking through a sunlit field in perfect harmony… it might be time to gently lower those expectations.
Because here’s the thing: real family sessions? They’re a beautiful mess. And I mean that in the best way possible.
I’ve photographed toddlers licking windows, dads unknowingly wearing Paw Patrol stickers on their backs, and moms whispering “just smile for two more minutes” through gritted teeth. And guess what? Some of those chaotic, unexpected moments ended up being the most tender, joy-filled images of the entire session.
So here’s my honest, lovingly direct guide to going with the flow at your next family photo session—straight from a Minneapolis family photographer who’s seen it all (and loves every minute of it).
6. Be Present. Like, Really Present.
The best thing you can do is be with your people. Forget about what you think you should look like. Just lean in. Hug tighter. Laugh louder. Dance, cuddle, play. I’ll take care of the rest—lighting, angles, capturing those tiny in-between moments you didn’t even notice.
Because one day, you’ll look at these photos and feel exactly what it felt like to love your family in this season. That’s the gift.
...lastly
Looking for a Minneapolis family photographer who celebrates the chaos with you?
Let’s chat! I’d love to help you capture your family just as you are—mess, magic, and all. Click here to book your session!
Family sessions aren’t about perfection. They’re about connection. The real kind. The sticky, silly, beautiful kind.
So next time we meet for your Minneapolis family photo session, don’t worry about the wild hair, the chaos, or whether everyone’s cooperating. Trust the chaos. Trust the love. Trust that these imperfect moments might just be your favorites.
And if all else fails—there’s always fruit snacks.
