How to Make the Most of Your Family Photography Session
Family photography is about more than just getting everyone to smile at the same time. It’s about capturing connection, love, and those real-life in-between moments that make your family unique. Whether you're planning your first family photoshoot or returning for updated family portraits, the key to getting the most out of your session is a little intentional prep and a lot of fun. Here’s what a recent client said about their family photoshoot with our studio:
“I am that person who hates having her picture taken and always looks awkward. I went to Fontaine Photography based on their reviews hoping to get at least one passable photo that I didn’t hate so much.They completely surpassed my expectations. I love my photos! Thank you for making me look and feel pretty. The entire experience was excellent. Having my hair and makeup done professionally first really took away all the stress of the day. I highly recommend Fontaine Photography.”
At Fontaine Photography, we specialize in family photography sessions across Vancouver and the surrounding areas, offering a personalized, full-service experience that’s both relaxed and refined. Here are our top tips to make the most of your family portrait session.
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1. Set Clear Goals for Your Session
Before your family photoshoot session, think about what you’d like these photos to represent. Are you hoping for updated family portraits for your home? Holiday card images? A milestone celebration like a new baby or anniversary? Letting your family photographer know your vision helps us tailor the experience and your pictures to reflect exactly what matters most.
2. Choose a Meaningful Location
The setting of your shoot adds mood, character, and personal touch to your family photos. We love offering studio sessions in our Vancouver space for a clean, timeless look, but outdoor locations can be just as magical. From Stanley Park to Spanish Banks, or your own backyard, we’ll help you select a location that suits your family’s style.
3. Wardrobe: Keep It Coordinated, Not Matching
Your outfits play a big role in the overall aesthetic. Choose a color palette of 2–3 complementary tones, and aim for textures and layers that add depth. Avoid bold logos or patterns that can distract. If you need help, we offer styling consultations before every family photoshoot to make the process easy and cohesive.
4. Let the Kids Be Kids
Some of the best family photos happen when kids are allowed to just be themselves. Don’t stress about perfection—if your toddler wants to dance, twirl, or take a snack break, we’re all for it. Authentic moments always outshine stiff poses, and we’re pros at turning chaos into charm.
5. Trust Your Family Photographer
You’ve hired a professional for a reason—now let us guide the experience. From lighting and angles to knowing when to pause for a reset, we’ll handle the technical pieces while you focus on enjoying the moment. We'll even provide gentle prompts to encourage natural interactions and laughter, so your family portraits turn out stunning.
6. Make It an Experience, Not Just a Task
Treat the day like a family adventure, not a chore. Grab brunch before or celebrate with ice cream after. When the session is part of a positive memory, the photos reflect that energy, and your kids may even look forward to the next family photoshoot!
Wrap-Up: Memories That Last a Lifetime
A family photoshoot isn’t just about snapping a few nice pictures—it’s about preserving a chapter of your story. At Fontaine Photography, we’re passionate about helping Vancouver families feel seen, celebrated, and beautifully captured in every frame. Whether it’s a yearly tradition or a once-in-a-lifetime moment, we’ll guide you through every step of a family photoshoot to make it seamless, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable. Ready to book your session? Let’s create family portraits you’ll love for years to come.
Vancouver
Family Photographers
Your family is growing, changing, and creating memories—don’t let those moments slip by. Book your family portrait session with our award-winning Vancouver family photographers and let us capture the genuine connection, laughter, and love you share. Let’s create family photos you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
SERVICE AREA
Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Burnaby, Surrey, New Westminster, Annacis Island, Port Moody, Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Anmore & Surrounding Areas
Our photo studio is conveniently located just outside of Vancouver, in Port Coquitlam.
Couples Photoshoots
Celebrate your connection with a couples photoshoot that captures the real, candid magic between you. Whether it’s playful, intimate, or somewhere in between—our couples sessions are all about telling your love story.