A toddler walks between parents holding hands outdoors near a white fence during a fall family photo session.

What to Wear & How to Prep for Effortless Family Photos

Toddler boy in denim overalls sitting cross-legged on a white sofa holding a toy, with a green plant nearby.
Mother kisses toddler daughter in floral outfit on white couch.
Happy family of four poses on white sofa with two young children.
Smiling toddler girl in floral dress with white bow sits on white sofa.
Baby in denim overalls sitting on white sofa playing with toy cars in bright living room.

DRESSING KIDS


Comfort always comes first


Kids photograph best when they feel like themselves.


Helpful tips:

Choose clothes they can move in and cover all the places we want covered. We don't want to be constantly adjusting clothes and other details, that takes away from the moments.


Avoid brand-new outfits if possible. Kids (and dads) do NOT like being uncomfortable, so be sure they have worn the outfits before and they are comfy well before your session.


Barefoot is completely okay for in-home sessions or the beach


Wrinkles, messy hair, and imperfect moments are not problems. They’re real life. I care way more about everyone interacting and being happy than I do a wrinkle or a piece of hair flowing in the wind.

WHAT PHOTOGRAPHS BEST


Cohesive beats matching


The goal is to coordinate, not match. Think soft, neutral, and comfortable.


Color guidance:

Cream, ivory, beige

Soft blues, sage, olive

Warm browns, muted grays


Textures that photograph beautifully:

Linen

Cotton

Knits

Denim


Avoid:

Logos and graphics

Neon or overly bright colors

Everyone in black or white

Stiff or uncomfortable clothing


If you’re unsure, choose one anchor outfit (usually yours) and build from there.

HOW TO PREP (WITHOUT STRESS)


Keep prep simple


You don’t need to do everything.


Helpful prep:

Give yourselves TIME, rushing is the first thing that will set a negative tone for your session.


Light snack beforehand


Clean faces and brushed hair


Clear a few surfaces for in-home sessions


Open blinds and curtains and turn all interior lights off if shooting in your home


Skip:

Bribery or pressure


Coaching kids to “behave”

or to "say cheese", I beg of you.


Stressing about perfection


I’ll guide you through the rest.

WHAT SESSIONS ARE LIKE WITH ME


My sessions are movement-based and relaxed. I’ll gently guide you when needed and step back when moments unfold naturally. We also love to play games and get moving, so always be prepared to have fun!


There are no "forced" poses and no pressure to perform. Just connection, warmth, and honest moments.

You’re doing it right


If it feels comfortable, you’re doing it right.


Some of the most meaningful images come from the in-between moments. Trust the process and enjoy being together.


Most of the time you don't even know I am shooting!

If you’re ready to book or want to learn more, I’d love to connect.


When you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels effortless and true to you.


Inquire with Summer Brader Photography

The Experience


From inquiry to gallery delivery, everything is designed to feel simple,

organized, and supportive.


You’ll receive:


Clear communication and guidance

Styling and prep resources

A relaxed, kid-friendly approach

Thoughtfully edited, cohesive galleries

A process that doesn’t leave you guessing


You don’t need to know how to pose.

You don’t need perfectly behaved kids.

You just need to show up and trust the process.


Investment


Most clients invest $495-$995, depending on session type and selected collection.


All sessions include:


Planning and prep guidance

A fully curated and edited gallery

A seamless online delivery experience

Full pricing details are shared before booking so there are no surprises.

Follow me on Instagram

@summerbraderphotography