5 Things Parents Should Know Before Booking a Photoshoot

Booking a photoshoot for your child can feel like a big decision, especially if it’s your first time. There’s often a lot of unknowns around how it will go, what to bring, and how your child will be in front of the camera.

Over the years, I’ve worked with so many families, and there are a few things that always make the biggest difference, not just in the final images, but in how the whole experience feels.

1. Your child doesn’t need experience

This is the thing I get asked about the most.

Most of the children I photograph aren’t signed models, and a lot of them come in a little unsure at the start. That’s completely normal.

My approach is very guided, but in a way that still feels natural. I’ll give them small directions, adjust as we go, and let things unfold rather than trying to control every moment.

Some kids warm up straight away, others take a little longer. Either way is fine. The best images usually happen once they relax a bit and forget about the camera.

2. Outfits matter more than you think

Styling really shapes the feel of a shoot.

The right outfit can make an image feel soft and timeless, while the wrong one can pull focus without you even realising.

I usually suggest bringing a couple of options so we can choose what works best on the day. Softer tones, natural textures, and pieces with a bit of movement always photograph beautifully.

Anything too busy, heavily branded, or very trend-based can date quite quickly, so it’s usually best to keep things simple.

If you’re unsure, you can always send options through beforehand. I’m more than happy to help with this, it’s something I really love.

3. You don’t need to over-prepare

You don’t need to practice poses or try to get your child to “perform”.

The more relaxed they are coming into the shoot, the better.

I’ll guide everything on the day, and I’ll adjust depending on how they’re feeling. Sometimes we’ll move a lot, sometimes we’ll slow things right down.

The only real preparation needed is making sure they’ve had something to eat, they’re not too tired, and they feel comfortable.

4. Hair & makeup isn’t required (but can help)

This is completely optional.

For younger children or more natural sessions, keeping things simple works beautifully. Clean hair, a little bit of tidying, and letting them look like themselves is more than enough.

For older kids or more portfolio-style shoots, hair and makeup can elevate the overall look and help everything feel a bit more polished.

It can also give them a bit of a confidence boost, which always comes through in the images.

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to guide you on what would suit your shoot.

5. It’s meant to be a fun experience

More than anything, a photoshoot should feel fun.

Kids pick up on energy quickly, so when things feel relaxed and positive, that’s exactly what you’ll see in the images. There’s no pressure for everything to be perfect.

Some of the best moments happen in between, when they’re laughing, moving, or just being themselves.

That’s always what I’m looking for.