HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT: TIPS FOR A FUN AND RELAXED SESSION
Photos are so much more than pictures. They are memories frozen in time — the way your children held your hand, the laughs you shared with your partner, the cuddles with your dog, the chaos, and all the love in between. Years from now, these photographs will become some of your most treasured possessions, bringing you right back to these fleeting moments of family life.
1. CHOOSE OUTFITS THAT FEEL TIMELESS AND COMFORTABLE
One of the most common questions I get asked is: “What should we wear for our photoshoot?”
The secret is to keep things simple, comfortable, and natural. I always recommend soft neutral tones such as beige, cream, soft browns, muted greens, or gentle pastels. These colours photograph beautifully outdoors and help create a timeless look that won’t feel dated in years to come.
Rather than matching exactly, aim for outfits that complement each other in tone and style. Soft textures and flowing fabrics work especially well for outdoor sessions because they add movement and softness to your photographs.
Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. When you feel relaxed, it naturally shows in your photos.
If you’d like more detailed outfit inspiration, you can also read my guide on How to dress for your Photoshoot.
2. THE TIME OF DAY MATTERS
When planning your family photoshoot, timing can make a huge difference — especially when little children are involved. Unlike some destinations, Scotland doesn’t always offer a predictable golden hour (or predictable weather, for that matter!), so choosing the right time for your session is often about balancing beautiful light with what works best for your family — and sometimes simply timing things around the next passing shower.
For couples and pet photoshoots, I often recommend scheduling sessions in the early morning or later evening, when the light is softer and creates that dreamy, natural glow in photographs. However, when young children are involved, the situation can look quite different. Over the years, I’ve found that around 10 a.m. tends to work really well for family sessions with kids. At this time of day, children are usually well-rested, happy, and full of energy, which helps create relaxed, natural photographs with genuine smiles and connection.
Of course, I completely understand that morning sessions aren’t always possible — especially when travelling with children. The good news is that beautiful photographs can be created at any time of day. With the right location, light, and a relaxed approach, we’ll always make the most of your session and create images that feel natural, warm, and full of connection.
3. PREPARE THE KIDS
Children respond best when they know what to expect and feel excited about the experience.Instead of describing the session as “taking photos,” try talking about it as a fun family adventure. Let them know we’ll be playing games, laughing together, and spending quality time as a family.
This helps children feel relaxed and comfortable before the session even begins.
My approach to family photography is always playful and natural. I gently guide your family while allowing plenty of space for genuine interaction, connection, and real emotion.
Also, snacks are not just recommended — they’re basically a survival strategy.
A few easy, mess-free favourites can work absolute wonders during a session. Think raisins, crackers, fruit pouches… anything that won’t immediately cover faces, clothes, and hands in chocolate five minutes after arriving. Little snack breaks can make a huge difference in keeping energy levels up and helping children avoid the classic mid-photoshoot emotional crisis. And honestly? That’s completely normal. I always encourage families to let children play, explore, cuddle, run around, and simply be themselves during the session. Some of the most beautiful photographs happen in between the “everyone look at the camera and smile” moments.The giggles after being tickled, tiny hands reaching for mum and dad, children collecting sticks they absolutely must take home — those are the moments that make your gallery feel real. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s capturing your family exactly as you are: connected, joyful, slightly chaotic at times, and full of love.
Your photoshoot doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful.
The most meaningful photographs come from real connection, genuine emotion, and simply being together. So don’t worry about perfectly behaved children, dogs or flawless poses. Focus instead on enjoying the experience, cuddling your babies, laughing together, and creating memories. Those are the moments you’ll treasure forever.
If you’re planning a photoshoot in Scotland and would love a relaxed, natural experience, I’d be honoured to capture these special moments for you.