Guide to Your Family-Session with Ferrazzani Photography

 

 

 

Family enjoying an autumn moment together by a lake with golden willow trees in the background.

What to Expect

 


A Relaxed & Fun Atmosphere


Family sessions with me are all about capturing genuine connections and real moments. Whether your family is playful, adventurous, or more low-key, I’ll create a session that reflects who you are. There’s no pressure for perfect poses—just natural interactions, laughter, and the little in-between moments that make your family unique.


A Kid-Friendly Experience


As an early childhood educator, I know how to make sessions fun and stress-free for little ones. I’ll use games, prompts, and movement to keep them engaged, so there’s no need to worry about getting them to “cooperate.” The best photos come from kids being themselves, and I’m here to capture that beautifully.


Guidance Without the Stress


Not sure how to pose? Don’t worry—I’ll guide you through it! I’ll offer gentle direction while keeping everything natural and comfortable. You’ll never feel stiff or overly posed, just relaxed and in the moment with your family.


After Your Session


Once your session is complete, I’ll carefully edit your images to enhance the colors, lighting, and details while keeping them natural and true to life. You’ll receive a beautifully curated online gallery where you can download, share, and order prints of your favorite moments.


My goal is to create images that feel like you—real, joyful, and full of love. I can’t wait to capture your family’s story!


A child wearing a red plaid shirt and jeans stands in an empty lot with graffiti and urban structures in the background.

Locations I love

What to Wear

For her

• Flowy dresses, skirts, or fitted outfits that highlight your silhouette always photograph beautifully.

• If you prefer pants, go for structured pieces with soft layers to add movement.

• Comfortable shoes if we’ll be walking a lot (heels can be great for city sessions, but bring a backup pair!).

For Him

A well-fitted button-up, henley, or sweater with dark jeans or chinos works well.

• Layers like a blazer or a jacket can add interest and variety.

• Avoid bulky shoes—sleek, neutral-toned footwear looks best.

For All

• Stick to neutral, earth tones, or muted colors for a soft, romantic look.

• Avoid loud patterns, logos, or neon colors, which can be distracting.

Textures and layers (knits, linen, flowy fabrics) add depth and dimension to photos.

• Coordinate, but don’t match exactly—complementary colors look best together!

• Bring a second outfit if you want variety (one casual, one dressy is a great combo!).


Two boys in casual attire sit together on large rocks surrounded by lush greenery on a sunny afternoon.

What To Bring

What to Bring to Your Family Session

• Extra Outfits (if needed): Great for young kids in case of spills, messes, or just a fresh look.

• Comfortable Shoes: We may walk around a bit, so comfy footwear is key (or bring a pair to swap in and out).

• Snacks & Water: Especially helpful for little ones to keep energy up and moods happy.

• Favorite Toy or Blanket: If your child has a comfort item, bringing it can help them feel at ease.

• Small Treats (if allowed): Mini marshmallows, Smarties, or fruit snacks work well as tiny incentives without making a mess.

• Neutral Accessories: Hats, scarves, or simple jewelry can add variety without overpowering the photos.

• Baby Wipes & Tissues: Handy for quick cleanups, especially with little ones.

• Bug Spray & Sunscreen (for outdoor sessions): Helps keep everyone comfortable, especially in warmer months.

• A Positive Attitude: The best photos come from families who relax, have fun, and enjoy the moment!

How to Prepare

Intimate family moment captured amongst evergreen trees on a sunny autumn day.

Choose Outfits wisely

• Coordinate, but don’t match—stick to complementary colors and avoid busy patterns or large logos.

• Neutral and earth tones photograph beautifully, and layers add depth.

• Dress comfortably so you can move, play, and interact naturally.

prep the kids (and the adults!)

• Let kids know this will be a fun experience—no pressure, just playing and spending time together.

• Make sure everyone is well-rested and fed before the session to avoid crankiness.

• Bring snacks, a favorite toy, or a small treat as a reward if needed.


Plan for the location

• If we’re shooting outdoors, check the weather and dress accordingly.

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking, especially if we’re in a park or nature setting.

• Consider bug spray or sunscreen if needed.


Relax & Have fun

• Kids will be kids—don’t stress if they’re a little silly or shy. I’ll guide the session to keep things natural.

• Focus on enjoying the time with your family rather than trying to make everything “perfect.” The best moments happen when you’re just being yourselves!

• Trust the process—I’ll handle the details and make sure you get beautiful, authentic photos to cherish.


A tender moment between a mother in a cozy gray sweater holding her sleepy newborn baby by a bright window.



Understanding Child Development & Attention span in Family Photography


As a photographer with a background in early childhood education, I know that kids bring their own energy and pace to a session—and that’s exactly what makes family photos so special! Understanding how long children can focus at different ages helps set realistic expectations and ensures a fun, stress-free experience for everyone.


Typical Attention Spans by Age

• Toddlers (1-2 years old): 2-5 minutes – Expect lots of movement, quick engagement, and playful interactions.

• Preschoolers (3-4 years old): 5-10 minutes – They may follow simple prompts but still need variety and breaks.

• Young Children (5-6 years old): 10-15 minutes – Can focus longer but still thrive with movement and games.

• Older Children (7+ years old): 15-25 minutes – More capable of structured posing but still benefit from playfulness.


How We Support Kids’ Focus During a Session


We know that young children aren’t built to sit still for long, so we make the session fun, engaging, and tailored to their natural attention span.


Keeping Toddlers & Preschoolers Engaged

• Make it a game. Instead of traditional posing, we use play-based prompts like running to a parent for a hug, twirling, or making silly faces.

• Keep it moving. Expect lots of action shots—walking, jumping, spinning, and playing help keep little ones engaged.

• Follow their lead. If they’re curious about something nearby, we embrace it! Letting them interact naturally often leads to the most joyful, candid moments.

• Use fun prompts. Asking them to whisper a secret, give a big bear hug, or show off a silly dance keeps them focused without feeling pressured.

• Incorporate familiar comforts. A favorite stuffed animal, a small snack, or a fun song can help reset their focus.

• Keep the energy light. Kids respond best to excitement and positivity, so we make sure the session feels like play instead of work!


By working with your child’s natural energy and attention span, we ensure a relaxed, enjoyable session that captures their true personalities and your family’s connection.


A cozy nursery room with animal artwork, a recliner, and two dogs relaxing on a round rug by the chair.
Two people wearing heart patterned sweaters lie head to head smiling on a gray surface.


What Happens After your Session?

After our session, I’ll carefully select and edit the best images. Your final gallery will be delivered within 3-5 weeks via an online gallery where you can view, download, and share your photos. If you’re interested in prints or albums, I can guide you through options to preserve your memories beautifully.


Final Tips & Reminders


• Arrive on Time: This helps us make the most of the best lighting and keeps things stress-free.

• Dress for Comfort: Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing—nothing too tight, itchy, or fussy.

• Embrace the Moment: Don’t stress about kids being “perfect.” Let them be themselves, and I’ll capture the magic!

• Stay Close & Connected: The best photos come from natural interactions—snuggle, laugh, play, and enjoy your time together.

• Trust the Process: I’ll guide you the whole way, so relax and have fun!


Can’t wait to see you and capture some beautiful memories!



See you soon!

Sarah