How to Prep Kids for a Stress-Free Family Photo Session | Colorado Springs Photographer Tips
- Julie Vickers
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
How to Prep Kids for a Stress-Free Family Photo Session
Colorado Springs Family Photographer Tips
Family photos are meant to be joyful, not stressful — but any parent knows that getting kids picture-ready can feel like an Olympic sport. As a Colorado Springs family photographer, I’ve worked with children of every age and every personality, and I’ve learned exactly what helps sessions go smoothly (and what doesn’t!).
If you’re preparing for your upcoming family session, here are my best, tried-and-true tips for helping your kids feel relaxed, confident, and ready for beautiful photos.
1. Talk About the Session Ahead of Time
Kids love knowing what to expect. A day or two before your session, tell them:
“We’re going to meet a photographer for family pictures.”
“We’ll play some games and take fun photos.”
“It won’t take long, and then we’ll go do something fun afterward.”
Keep it upbeat and simple — no pressure, no “you better smile!” vibes. Excitement always photographs better than expectation.
2. Push Naps Back If Possible
Colorado Springs lighting is magical around sunset (what photographers call “golden hour”), but it’s also close to bedtime for little ones. Consider a later nap on photo session day so they're well rested for the evening session.
3. Plan Outfits They Can Move In
Comfort matters. If kids feel itchy, restricted, or cold, it will show on their faces.
Here’s what works best:
Soft layers they can run, spin, or sit in
Avoiding anything with big logos or characters
A sweater or jacket for Colorado Springs weather — it can change fast
Shoes they can walk on trails with (especially at Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Open Space, or Ute Valley)
4. Bring Simple, Quiet Snacks
Think: no chocolate, crumbs, or stains.
Good options:
Fruit snacks
Mini marshmallows
Applesauce pouches
Pretzels
Snacks also make great little rewards between poses.
5. Keep the Car Ride Calm
Kids feed off your energy. Let the drive to the session be relaxed — music, snacks, and positive talk. Avoid rushing, especially when shooting at busy locations like Garden of the Gods where parking can take a minute.
Aim to arrive 10 minutes early so everyone has time to breathe.
6. Let Your Photographer Lead
I always tell parents: relax, have fun, and let me take the lead with posing, prompting, and games.
Kids respond way better to play-based direction:
“Run to mom and give her a big squeeze!”
“Whisper your silliest secret in dad’s ear.”
“Show me how fast you can spin!”
These moments create natural smiles and genuine connection — no forced cheese.
7. Focus on Fun, Not Perfection
Kids don’t need to sit perfectly still to get beautiful photos. The best family galleries usually include:
Running
Laughing
Snuggling
Tickles
Candid moments
When kids feel free to be themselves, everything gets easier.
8. Reward the Experience
Plan something simple afterward — a trip to Josh & John’s Ice Cream, dinner at your family’s favorite spot, or a playground stop. Kids remember that the session led to something special, which makes the next session even smoother.
Final Thoughts
Prepping kids for a stress-free session is really about creating a relaxed, positive experience. When they’re comfortable and you’re calm, the photos always turn out beautifully.
If you’re looking to schedule your own family session in Colorado Springs — whether at Ute Valley Park, Garden of the Gods, Fox Run Paek, or a hidden gem — I’d love to help you create photos that feel joyful and real.
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