What A Relaxed Family Photoshoot Is Really Like
If the thought of booking a family photoshoot fills you with visions of forced smiles, matching outfits and whisper-hissing “just smile nicely for one photo!” through gritted teeth… you’re definitely not alone.
One of the biggest misconceptions about family photography is that everyone has to behave perfectly for the photos to turn out beautifully. They really don’t.
The best family photos usually happen in the in-between moments — a quick cuddle, an unexpected burst of laughter, a child doing their own thing while you watch on proudly from the side. Those natural interactions are what make a relaxed family photoshoot feel genuine, meaningful and completely unique to your family.
So let’s bust a few common family photography myths.
Myth 1: Children need to sit still and smile nicely
Probably the biggest myth of all.
Parents often apologise before we’ve even started:
“They won’t sit nicely.”
“He never smiles for photos.”
“She’s a bit wild.”
Please don’t worry.
My approach to family photography is centred around movement, play and connection rather than expecting children to sit perfectly still and grin at the camera for an hour. Most children don’t actually enjoy being told to pose repeatedly — and honestly, the photos are usually far better when they’re free to explore, run, laugh, cuddle and simply be themselves.
A relaxed family photoshoot gives children space to move naturally. We play games, go for little walks, chat and keep things feeling low-pressure and fun.
Some of my favourite images come from the moments parents think looked chaotic at the time.
Myth 2: Everyone needs matching outfits
Thankfully, family photography has moved on from identical white shirts and jeans.
Your photos should feel like you, not like you’ve all turned up in uniform.
For a relaxed outdoor family photoshoot, I usually recommend choosing a simple colour palette of two or three complementary tones rather than exact matching outfits. Soft neutrals, earthy colours and gentle textures tend to work beautifully outdoors and help keep the focus on your family connection rather than distracting clothing choices.
Comfort matters too — especially for younger children. If someone feels uncomfortable in what they’re wearing, it usually shows.
You can read more tips about how to choose your outfits here.
Myth 3: Family photoshoots are awkward and stressful
A lot of people tell me they feel nervous beforehand because they imagine a photoshoot will be formal, heavily posed or awkward.
That isn’t how I work at all.
My relaxed family photoshoots across Durham and the North East are designed to feel calm, natural and enjoyable. We adapt depending on children’s moods, energy levels and personalities. If little ones need breaks, snacks, cuddles or a complete change of plan halfway through, that’s absolutely fine.
There’s no expectation for children to “perform”, and there’s certainly no pressure for parents to feel instantly comfortable in front of the camera either.
The goal is simply to create opportunities for real moments to happen naturally.
Myth 4: Pets can’t be included
Dogs are family too.
Whether that means an energetic puppy racing around the beach, an older dog gently pottering alongside us or everyone attempting to gain the attention of one slightly distracted spaniel, pets are always welcome at my family sessions.
Including dogs often helps children relax too, because the focus shifts away from “having photos taken” and towards spending time together naturally.
And sometimes the dog completely steals the show.
Myth 5: You need to lose weight before booking family photos
This is probably the thing I hear most often from mums.
So many people delay booking a family photoshoot because they want to:
- lose weight
- feel more confident
- get fitter
- wait until life feels less hectic
- or simply “look better” first
But your children don’t see you through the same critical lens you see yourself.
They see the person who comforts them, laughs with them, carries them when they’re tired, wipes sticky fingers, reads bedtime stories and loves them completely.
Years from now, your children won’t care whether you thought you needed to lose half a stone before your family photoshoot. They’ll care that you were there, in the frame with them.
And your future self will too.
Present is far more powerful than perfect.
For advice about how to feel more comfortable in front of the camera, have a look at this blog.
What a relaxed family photoshoot is really about
A relaxed family photoshoot isn’t about perfection.
It’s about connection.
Personality.
Movement.
Laughter.
Tenderness.
The way your child reaches for your hand without thinking.
The way everyone bursts out laughing when something goes slightly wrong.
Those are the moments that matter.
Most of my family photography sessions take place outdoors around Durham and the North East, where children can move freely, explore naturally and enjoy the experience rather than feeling confined or pressured.
Because when families relax, the real magic happens.
Thinking about booking a family photoshoot?
If you’ve been considering booking a relaxed family photoshoot, this is your reminder that it doesn’t have to feel stressful, formal or perfect to be meaningful.
The most treasured family photos are usually the ones that feel real.
My family photography sessions currently cost £100 (£80 for weekday term-time bookings), last around 60–90 minutes, and include a mounted and framed 8×6” print with a matching digital image. There’s always the option to purchase additional images afterwards if you’d like to, but there’s absolutely no pressure.
Gift vouchers are available too.
If you’d like to chat about a family photoshoot in Durham or the North East you can read more here or send me a message, I’d love to hear from you.