Family Photo Tips: How to Make Family Photos Fun (Not Stressful!)

Family photo tips are everywhere, but here’s the truth: even with all the prep, advice blogs, and Pinterest inspo in the world, if you’re stressed out before your session begins, it shows. As a Denver family photographer who has spent years capturing real families in all their beautiful, messy, and authentic goodness, I’m here to tell you that, yes, family photos can be fun. In fact, the more fun you have, the more genuine those smiles will be. Let’s turn your Denver family photos into a memory you actually want to relive.

Parents cuddling their kids during a mountain session, with soft light and smiles that reflect authentic family connection.

Family sitting on top of a boulder, smiling and laughing together—creating space for connection is key in family photo tips.

Family walking away on a scenic trail, hand-in-hand, capturing a natural and candid moment in the great outdoors.

This beautiful family is a perfect example; they showed up ready to just enjoy being together, and it made all the difference. They were looking to capture some photos to commemorate their move to Colorado from Australia! Even though their adorable little girl started getting hungry towards the end of the session, we worked together to keep things flowing, create fun for their son, and focus on exploration together. The result was family photos I think are full of joy, connection, and those little in-between moments that tell their family story.

Family Photo Tips: Start with the Right Mindset

Warm sunset portrait of a family standing together in the Colorado foothills—showing how golden hour lighting enhances family photo tips.

A family of four sitting on a rocky outcrop under a cloudy Colorado sky, sharing a relaxed and joyful moment together.

Before we even talk about outfits or locations, let’s talk mindset. When both parents are on board and understand that this session is about connection, not perfection, everything changes. It’s okay to lower your expectations, really. Let go of the idea that everyone has to look and behave perfectly. Family photo day doesn’t need to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. Instead, think of it as one more adventure with your kiddos. Your only job? Show up, love on your people, and let me capture the good stuff.

Close-up of a young boy smiling while his sister is held by their parents, illustrating the power of connection in family photo tips.

Pick a Spot Where Kids Can Be Kids

Toddler girl in a white eyelet dress holding her mother’s hands while walking near rocky terrain in natural light.

Young boy making a silly face outdoors, showcasing a fun candid moment—one of many family photo tips is to let kids be themselves.

Parents holding hands with their two young children during a golden hour family session in a grassy Colorado meadow.

One of my favorite family photo tips: choose a location that allows your kids to run and play. A wide-open field, a forest trail, or even your own backyard can offer space for kids to explore and move. When they feel like they can run, jump, and be themselves, that energy turns into pure joy on camera. As a Denver family photographer, I have a few go-to spots where the views are stunning and the space welcomes play! If you’re unsure of what spot may be best for your bunch, message me. As a seasoned photographer and mom of twins, I completely understand the importance of finding the perfect spot that allows your kids to be kids. Together, we can brainstorm and find the perfect location for your crew!

Plan Around Naps and Mealtimes for Better Family Photos

A smiling family of four posing together on a scenic overlook with trees and sky in the background—proof that relaxed vibes are key in family photo tips.

Dad leaning down to guide his toddler daughter across a rocky trail, full of love and support.

Timing is everything. If your little one usually naps at 3 PM, a 3:30 session probably isn’t the best fit for your family, and that’s okay- Unless it’s November, the lighting won’t be good then either! Don’t be afraid to tweak nap or snack times a bit on photo day, whatever helps your kiddos feel their best. And yes, making sure everyone (even grown-ups!) is fed ahead of time can go a long way in keeping the vibe calm and happy.

A young family walking through a Colorado meadow, surrounded by lush greenery and soft afternoon light.

I know it can feel like just one more thing to juggle, but you’re not alone. We’ll work together to choose a time that works well for your family, so no one’s running on empty or overdue for a nap. A little pre-session planning really does go a long way in setting the tone for a fun and easygoing experience for everyone.

Avoid the Overbooked Day

Father crouching on a rock while holding his young son, both beaming—real connection is one of the best family photo tips.

Parents holding their kids and laughing during a mountaintop photo session, framed by trees and golden hour light.

Try to keep photo day as light and calm as possible. I totally get it, life is full and busy for all of us, but giving yourself a little breathing room can make a world of difference. If you can, avoid stacking it with birthday parties, sports games, or work calls. Rushing from one thing to the next is a fast track to stress (and let’s be real, no one feels their best in that state). Give yourself permission to slow down, get ready without the stress, and arrive feeling present, prepared to have a blast with the people you love most. That energy? It trickles down to your kiddos and sets the tone for the whole session.

Family Photo Tips: Dress for Comfort (and Cuddles)

A family of four enjoying a lighthearted moment on rocky terrain under a dramatic Colorado sky.

Close-up of a smiling baby girl touching her mouth while being held by her mother—candid expressions like this are gold in family photo tips.

Let’s talk outfits for a sec, because what you wear can make a difference, but it shouldn’t cause stress. Choose clothes that feel like you, and that your kiddos won’t fuss over. Think layers, textures, and tones that complement each other without matching perfectly. And skip anything itchy, stiff, or overly precious, because when you’re comfortable, you’ll naturally move, play, and snuggle better. If your little guy insists on wearing his dinosaur rain boots? Honestly, it’ll probably end up being your favorite photo. If you’re looking for more guidance on family photos, check out my family photo outfit guide!

Relax, Let Go, and Enjoy Your People

Baby girl holding hands with dad and walking confidently in a sunlit field, while her brother reaches for mom’s hand nearby.

Big brother sitting on a quilt and holding his baby sister, both smiling sweetly during a candid moment outdoors.

This might be the hardest tip of all, but it’s the most important: let go of the rules. If your toddler wants to splash in a puddle or your tween rolls their eyes, don’t panic. The magic of family photos is in the real. The giggles, the hand-holding, the messy hair and muddy shoes. When you relax, your family will, too, and that’s when the good stuff happens.

Parents helping their son climb over large rocks during a mountain photo session, working together to keep it playful and stress-free.

I’ve had sessions where a kiddo flat-out refused to pose until we started playing chase. Suddenly, we’re all laughing, everyone loosens up, and boom, that’s the shot that ends up framed on the wall. I promise, you don’t need to be perfectly posed to get perfectly meaningful. The more you let your family just be, the more authentic your photos will feel.

What a Stress-Free Session Really Looks Like

Dad lifting baby daughter into the air while mom and brother smile, enjoying the candid joy of the moment.

Dad lifts baby daughter toward the sky as mom and son look on, with pine trees and cloudy skies surrounding them—spontaneity is key in family photo tips.

Want a peek at how this all comes together? The Aussie transplants totally nailed the relaxed, joy-filled vibe. We picked a spot where the kids could explore. They showed up well-fed and in comfy, coordinated outfits, and most importantly, they let go of the pressure to be perfect. The result? A gallery full of connection, playfulness, and genuine love.

Baby girl learning to walk while holding her mother’s hands in a golden Colorado field.

Family Photo Tips: End with a Sweet Treat

Parents walking with their children across a rocky cliffside, holding hands and smiling—natural movement is one of the most valuable family photo tips.

Family relaxing together on top of a massive rock formation, waving playfully toward the camera.

Nothing says “best day ever” like a reward at the end. Whether it’s ice cream, a trip to the park, or just extra screen time, a post-session treat gives everyone something to look forward to. It also helps create a positive experience with photos, so next time, your kids might even be excited.

Family posing on a mountaintop with panoramic views—framing your location is one of the top family photo tips for outdoor sessions.

Book Me For Your Denver Family Photos

Family photo tips are great, but the best sessions happen when you show up as you are and trust the process. If you’re looking for a Denver family photographer who knows how to make magic out of real moments, I’m your girl.

Family of four enjoying a quiet moment seated on large rocks in a scenic Colorado landscape.

A family stands arm in arm overlooking a forested valley—one of the simplest family photo tips is to capture the view from behind for natural emotion.

So let’s make this easy and fun. Let’s laugh a little when things get chaotic (because they will), and capture your family just as you are in this season. Reach out today, I can’t wait to help you create images that feel like you.

Dad handing baby daughter to mom during a golden hour session in the Colorado foothills, with big brother smiling in the background—natural interaction is one of the most important family photo tips.

Looking for more tips for your upcoming family photos? Check out a few of my favorite blogs below!

Capturing Authentic Moments: Tips for Fun and Easy Family Photos with Toddlers

How to Capture the Attention of Kiddos Who Are Over It During Your Outdoor Denver Photos

Tips for Working with Children with Special Needs During Denver Family Photos