Preparing for family photos doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Truly. My goal as your Seattle family photographer is for you to feel relaxed, confident, and actually enjoy your time together - not worry about perfection.

Here’s how to prep in a way that keeps things easy, fun, and low-stress (promise).

What to Wear: Keep It Simple + Comfortable

Outfits set the tone, but they don’t need to steal your energy. If you want a deeper dive, I’ve written a full What to Wear for Family Photos post you can reference - but here are my biggest tips:

Choose your favorite outfit first
Start with one outfit you love (yes, this is usually mine 😉). Everything else can build around that.
Pair simple colors that complement your “anchor” look
Neutrals, soft tones, and gentle contrast photograph beautifully and feel timeless.
Add texture for visual interest
Denim, corduroy, knits, linen — texture adds depth without being distracting.
Don’t forget the accessories (especially shoes!)
Shoes can complete the look or distract! I say yes to nice but comfortable shoes that might get dirty or sandy, and no to worn out sneakers.

Comfort > perfection. Always.

What to Bring to Your Family Session

A few simple items can make your session flow effortlessly.

Must-haves:

A neutral blanket
This gives us cozy, cuddly variety and a clean place to sit. Creams, tans, or soft patterns work best - unless a fun blanket truly fits your family’s vibe (then go for it!).
Snacks that photograph well
My top pick? Mini marshmallows.
They don’t melt, don’t stain, and kids think they’re a treat.
An extra tote bag
Toss everything in one place — jackets, phones, keys, snacks, blanket — so we can move easily without piling things on the (usually muddy) ground.
Poop bags if you’re bringing your dog
This one always sneaks up on people 😂

How to Prep Your Kids (Keep It Light!)

Kids feed off energy. The more relaxed you are, the easier this feels for them.

A few phrases I love:

“We’re going to hang out with our friend Meredith and have fun together.”
“We get to take photos we can frame in our house — would you want one in your room?”

If you have older photos, show them and say things like, “Look how little you were!”

And a very important note:
I speak fluent toddler. I have a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. I am right there in it with you. Nothing your child does will surprise me — truly.

The Biggest Reminder (This One’s for You, Parents)

When you’re in it, it doesn’t always feel pretty.

You’re covered in spit-up or breakfast crumbs. Your kids are in mismatched daycare clothes. Your house looks like a tornado hit it. You haven’t showered in three days.

So let this be your excuse.

Put on a little makeup. Do your hair. See your kids in those outfits you forget to let them wear. Spend an hour playing with them. Loving on your partner. Being a family.

Allow me.

Let me show you your family through my eyes — the magic, the laughter, the little touches, the love in the snuggles. We’re not just taking photos. We’re capturing a moment in time.

So let’s enjoy it.
Embrace the chaos.
And most importantly… let’s have some fun.