Planning a family photo session and don’t know where to start? Aren’t really even sure about what questions you should have? 

If this is you, hi! My name is Kira and I am a photographer from Fort Collins, Colorado that focuses on photographing families, couples, and weddings! I have been doing this for a long time and have seen everything under the sun when it comes to family photos. This is a list of the most common family photo shoot related questions I get from moms and dads trying to plan out their session! Keep reading to get answers to questions you have been thinking on for awhile, and answers to ones you didn’t know you had!

Question: What should we wear? 

Answer: After booking I will send you an outfit guide that goes over literally ALL of my best outfit tips, and even a couple of outfit vision boards if you are still not totally sure what vibe you want to go for with your session. 

If I had to put my best outfit recommendations into three words I would say simple, comfortable, and well fitting. Simple, because I don’t want you to over think, stick to what feels best and true to you. Comfortable, because when you are uncomfortable in the outfit you choose it WILL show in the photos. And well fitting, because I don’t want you to need to stop every couple of minutes to re-adjust your outfit. 

I also find it is usually easiest to pick out the moms outfit first and then go from there. For example, if mom is going to be wearing a calf length blue gingham dress with sandals, then everyone else’s outfits should be in the same color palette and vibe. So maybe a white and blue patterned button down and khakis for dad. Jeans and a cute cardigan for your daughter. And a neutral button down and khaki shorts for your son! 

Question: How long will the session last? 

Answer: As of July 2026 (when this blog was written and posted) I offer 30 minute, 1 hour, and a lifestyle session (up to four hours of photo coverage) for family photo sessions. How long your session lasts will entirely depend on your goal for the photos. Like if you just want something quick to check off that you got family photos done this year, then a 30 minute session is perfect! Or if you just came out of a hard season and want more documentary style photos to celebrate it being over, then the lifestyle session might be more along the lines of what you need. 

Question: What if my kids don’t cooperate? 

Answer: When thinking about their family photos, I often try to encourage parents to go beyond just the “stand and smile” types of photos. Instead I suggest activities you guys can do together. Cooking together, playing in a field together, hanging out in your backyard together. Make it a fun activity you guys can do together. This way your kids are engaged in the photo taking process and having fun. And (hopefully) just ignoring the fact that there is a camera involved, that way they are just being themselves. 

Question: Can our pets be in the photos? 

Answer: Yes absolutely! Because pets are family too! The only time it will not work to have your pets in the photos is if we are going to a location that does not allow animals. If you are wanting to bring your pets to the session, let me know in your inquiry form so I can make sure to suggest locations that are pet friendly! 

Question: What locations work best? 

Answer: For family photo locations I really love spots that are interesting to kids. Think local parks, local natural areas, your own backyard, etc. This way they are having fun and exploring and it is more than just taking photos to them, it is an adventure and something they will remember long after the photo session ends. 

Question: How do you approach family sessions? 

Answer: I take a guided documentary approach to family sessions. Meaning that I let the moments unfold naturally, but will step in to make adjustments before taking photos to make sure everything looks right on camera. The goal is always to make sure that your family photos feel sweet, authentic, and true to your family story. I will guide you through a series of prompts when needed, that way you receive all of the candid and genuine photos that you were hoping for. 

This being said, I do always make sure I get a couple of the classic posed photos where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling, just because grandparents love to have those ones printed and hung up on the walls! 

Question: How and when will we receive our photos?

Answer: Two weeks after your session you will receive an email with a link to your photo gallery through an online photo delivery service called Pic-Time. In that email I will also include download instructions so you can save all the photos to your device, and instructions on how to share the gallery with others who are excited to see the photos. There is also a print shop attached to the gallery, so you can buy all of your favorite photos as prints without having the hassle of having to go and search for a printer. 

Question: We are really awkward in photos, is that okay? 

Answer: Trust me when I say that everyone feels awkward at first in photos, and that it is totally okay! We will start slow with your photos, and really give you a chance to get used to being in front of the camera. Then as you warm up, we will start to get even more photos. Plus, I will NEVER send you photos where you don’t look 100% amazing in. 

If you are reading these answers and thinking “yes this is exactly what I was looking for in a family photographer, where do I book?!” you can reach out by clicking HERE and I will get back to you within 48 hours! Or if you’re like “I want to book but what to see more before I reach out”, click HERE and it will take you to a page on my website that is specific to family and maternity photo sessions! I am so excited to hear from you, and plan the sweetest family photos ever!