A Few Things to Know Before Your Family Photos

If you’ve been thinking about booking family photos on the Gold Coast or Byron Bay, you probably have a few questions before you actually go ahead and book.

What if the kids are feral? What if everyone feels awkward? What happens if it rains? What do we wear? Is sunset too late for little ones?

These are all completely normal things to wonder about, so I’ve pulled together the questions I get asked most often.

My family sessions are relaxed and fairly loose. I’ll guide you when you need it, but I’m not going to spend an hour trying to get everyone standing perfectly and smiling at the camera. I’d much rather give your kids room to move, let things unfold naturally, and photograph the little bits of your family that are already there.

What if my kids won’t sit still?

They really don’t need to. Most kids are not going to happily stand in one spot and smile at a camera for an hour, and I don’t expect them to.

They can run around, explore, climb on things, collect shells, wander off for a minute and come back in when they’re ready. If someone needs a snack, a cuddle or a little break, we just take one. I usually find the best photos happen once everyone stops thinking too much about the camera.

What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?

Almost everyone says this before their session.

You don’t need to know how to pose or come prepared with ideas. I’ll give you simple direction as we go, whether that’s asking you to walk together, pick one of the kids up, sit somewhere for a cuddle or stay close for a minute. You won’t be left wondering what to do, but I also don’t want anything to feel too staged. I’m really just looking for the way you naturally are together.

What happens if it rains?

I keep a close eye on the weather before outdoor sessions, but I normally wait until quite close to the day before making any decisions because the weather around the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers can change so quickly.

Cloudy weather can actually be beautiful for photos, and a little passing rain doesn’t always mean we need to cancel. If it is properly wet, stormy or really windy, we can look at moving the time, changing the day or finding another option. If you are visiting the area and only have a small window available, I’ll always do my best to work around your dates.

What time of day is best?

I photograph families at all different times of day. Sunset is always beautiful because you get that soft, golden light, but it is definitely not the only time that works well. Early mornings can be really fun too, especially when the kids are fresh and happy. The sun can be brighter and a little more playful, which gives the photos a completely different feel. The best time really depends on your family, your kids and the kind of session you want. I am always happy to work around what is going to suit everyone best.

Where should we have our photos taken?

It really depends on what feels most like you. Some families love the beach, while others prefer open fields, bushland, river spots or somewhere a little quieter. In-home sessions are also beautiful, especially for newborns and younger children.

I photograph families across the Gold Coast, Tweed Coast, Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers, so there are plenty of options. Once you book, I can help you choose somewhere based on the kind of setting you like, the ages of your kids and how far you want to travel.

You can also have a look through my Location Guide for a few of my favourite spots!

What should we wear?

You do not need to buy matching outfits or dress everyone in beige. The main thing is that you still feel like yourselves.

I usually recommend starting with one outfit you really love and working everyone else around that. Soft, earthy and neutral tones photograph beautifully, but bright colours can work really well too especially if that fits your family’s vibe. I will send through a Welcome Guide after booking with more styling ideas and examples, so you’re not left trying to figure it all out on your own.

How long does a family session go for?

Most outdoor sessions are around an hour, while in home sessions can last up to two hours. I like to take my time and let things unfold naturally rather than rushing through a list of photos. There’s plenty of time to wander, change things up and let the kids settle in. If someone needs a snack, a cuddle or a little break, we just take one and keep going when everyone’s ready.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes, absolutely, I LOVE dogs! As long as the location allows, I’m more than happy for them to come along. Just let me know beforehand so we can choose somewhere that works.

Do you photograph extended families?

Yes, always. Extended family sessions are so special, especially when grandparents are involved or everyone is together in the same place

How far in advance should we book?

Weekends and school holidays tend to book first, so if you have a particular date in mind, it is always worth reaching out early. Weekdays usually have a little more flexibility.

If you are visiting the Gold Coast, Byron Bay or Northern Rivers and only have a couple of days available, definitely get in touch as soon as you know your dates.

Ready to book your family session?

If you have been thinking about updating your family photos, I would love to hear from you. I photograph families across the Gold Coast, Tweed Coast, Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers, with sessions that are relaxed, natural and centred around your family as they are.

You can have a look through my family photography packages to see what’s included, or head to my contact pageif you’d like to chat about a booking a family session.