Family photoshoots are in full swing during the fall and winter months! Family sessions are a great idea for all families, big and small. They are a way to freeze those super fleeting moments in time. As parents, we all know how fast our little ones grow and change right before our eyes, so why not commemorate those sweet moments in photo form?

Struggling with how to prepare for a family photo session? I’ve got you covered!

Buy a blanket! A simple, cheap blanket will do. If you have little ones that aren’t quite walking yet, and you’re taking some family photos in a field or the beach, a cheapie blanket that you don’t care about getting ruined is perfect. Stores like TJ Maxx or Ross are always good places for finding cute neutral blankets!

Wear your hair up, or pick a style that gets it out of your face! This tip is underrated and honestly so important. When you look back at your family photos, don’t you want to see your face?? Also, if you have toddlers or even just an active family, having your hair somewhat up or in a style that’s not going to be constantly getting into your face will ensure that I can see your beautiful smiles and expressions throughout the entire session. It’s also just super annoying to constantly be brushing your hair out of your face while you’re chasing your toddler around a park. If you want to check out the Pinterest board I created with tons of hair ideas, you can find that here!

Dress for the actual weather, not the season! There is seriously nothing worse than kids complaining that they are hot. If you live in Southern California, and you’re taking pictures on a fall afternoon, pay attention to the weather. If it’s a lot warmer than you expected, adjust your outfits accordingly. The importance of capturing your family and your true dynamic is far more of a priority than wearing fall clothes just because it’s fall. So dress for the weather, not for the season. Old Navy and H&M kids have great options for neutral clothing for both kids and parents!

So there ya have it! My biggest pieces of advice for family sessions. Now get out there and capture that beautiful family of yours!