Preparing for Your Session
A Guide for Beautiful, Stress-Free Family Photos
(Phoenix • Scottsdale • Paradise Valley • Desert Locations)
Family portraits are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate connection, personality, and the beauty of your family at this moment in time. This guide will help you prepare for your upcoming session — from what to wear, to what to bring, to how to ensure happy smiles and natural moments.What to Wear for Family Photos
Choosing outfits for the entire family can feel overwhelming, but coordinating doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are my best tips for selecting clothing that photographs beautifully — especially for desert family photo sessions in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Start With One Outfit
Begin by choosing one outfit for yourself or your child/children that has a pattern or multiple colors (such as a plaid shirt, floral dress, or striped top).
Use this piece to pull coordinating colors for the rest of the family.
Build a Color Palette
Soft, timeless, or earthy colors work beautifully in the desert landscape. Once you have your main patterned outfit, select complementary tones for everyone else.
Add Accessories for Depth
Scarves, layered jewelry, textured sweaters, hats for kids — all add visual interest and dimension to your images.
Jeans Photograph Better Than Khakis
Denim tends to photograph more naturally and flatteringly than khakis or dress trousers, especially in outdoor settings.
Comfort Is Key
Wear clothing that allows you to sit, kneel, lift children, and move naturally.
Avoid tight mini skirts or restrictive clothing.
Shoes for Desert or Park Sessions
Wear comfortable footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
You’re welcome to bring heels for final photos — just wear comfortable shoes while walking between locations.
Inspiration Gallery
What to Bring to Your Family Photo Session
Change of Clothes
Accidents, spills, and blowouts happen — especially with little ones. A backup outfit is always wise.
Snacks
Hungry kids are grumpy kids. Snacks can reset energy, offer incentives, or create a natural break.
Favorite Toys or “Lovies”
A familiar stuffie or small toy can bring comfort and help shy kids warm up.
Bug Spray (Summer Months)
From June–September, mosquito activity can increase near water or grassy areas.
Getting Natural Smiles From Children
My goal is always natural, joyful expressions — never forced smiles.
Let the Fun Lead
I avoid saying “Smile!” and instead use playful prompts, movement, teasing moments, and genuine interaction.
Know What Makes Your Children Laugh
If you know a silly phrase, inside joke, or a guaranteed giggle trigger — tell me!
You know your children best, and your involvement is invaluable.
Short Attention Spans Are Normal
Kids ages 1–5 typically last 15–20 minutes before becoming overstimulated.
We’ll take breaks, reset, and keep the session relaxed.
Keep the Energy Positive
Avoid warnings or threats during the session.
Instead, use encouragement and remind little ones of treats or fun plans after the photos.
Let Kids Be Kids
If children are having fun, the photos will reflect that. The best images often come from spontaneous, playful moments.
A Note for Moms and Dads
Dads
Believe it or not, dads are often the toughest to warm up — and that’s okay!
We’ll focus on natural interaction: playing with the kids, making them laugh, and capturing genuine connection.
Moms
We are our own harshest critics. I see you, and I’ve got you.
I’ll guide you through flattering poses, angles, and positioning so you feel confident and look beautiful.
You deserve to be in these photos — not behind the camera.
Lighting & Location Tips
Timing
Golden Hour
Shortly after sunrise or just before sunset, the light becomes soft, warm, and incredibly flattering.
This is the most beautiful light for Arizona family photos.
Avoid Midday Light
Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and squinting.
Indoor Sessions
If shooting indoors, natural window light is ideal. Artificial lighting can also be used to create a specific mood.
Choosing the Right Location
I photograph all around the Phoenix Valley — from the Desert Botanical Garden to Papago Park, Lost Dog Wash, Heritage Square, Market Street DC Ranch, Scottsdale Civic Center, and many more.
To choose the perfect spot, consider:
The aesthetic you want (desert, greenery, modern, architectural)
Your family’s mobility (flat terrain vs. hiking trails)
Shade availability
Time of day
Color palette of your clothing
Browse my galleries for examples of favorite locations around the valley.
If you have a special place in mind — or want me to come to your home — I’m happy to accommodate within optimal lighting hours.
Final Tips for a Beautiful Session
Arrive a few minutes early so no one feels rushed
Stay relaxed and playful — your energy sets the tone
Trust me to guide you on posing and positioning
Focus on enjoying your family — that is what photographs best