Packing for family photos: the things you’ll actually need

Motherhood isn’t always a walk in the park.. But with a little prep, your family session can be. Here’s some tips for what to pack for a family photoshoot from one mama to another, to make life a little easier on your session day.

The essentials and the extras, here’s what to pack

It’s easy to over-pack with littles, and as mum-brain strikes, we can often start to prepare for every possible outcome, and end up with a very well well stocked (ie. heavier than your toddler) bag full of everything and anything.

Here’s some of the essentials I recommend, not just for photo day, but the everyday:

1. Water bottles for everyone – including you, mum!  (my personal favourite – Montii’s bottles are child-friendly, sustainably sourced and created by a local mum – win-win!)
2. Wipes for easy on the go clean ups
3. No-mess snacks (more on that below)
4. A roomy backpack or bag that you can chuck it all in and easily carry on your adventures

For outdoor sessions, don’t leave the house without:

1. Insect repellent (for grassy locations)
2. A change of clothes to go home in for everyone (especially if we are near water)
3. Towel/s

Insider’s tip: Avoid bringing any toys you don’t want to be in the photos! Because Murphy’s Law!

Keeping the ‘hangry’ at bay

It’s the day of your family photo session, you’ve planned all the details – the outfits, the location and all the special details you’d like to have captured. The kids are dressed, you’ve managed to co-ordinate nap schedules and travel plans. And you arrive at your dreamy destination, to hear the words ‘I’m hungry’. 

To avoid sticky fingers and a sugar-crash –  think quick, healthy and mess free snacks for the kids:

• Something sweet, but a little more wholesome.
• In the midst of doing ‘all things mama’, don’t forget to nourish yourself! and these snack balls are something the entire family will enjoy
• For a naturally sweetened, easy to grab and go option, you can’t go past these kindy-kid approved bars.

For seriously cute and durable drinkware and lunchboxes, it doesn’t get any better than Montii Co.’s bottles and boxes. I’m an avid fan of researching far beyond what I really have time for when it comes to products for my two boys, and they are both proud owners of a Montii Co bottle. You also get all the warm and fuzzies knowing you’re supporting the business of a local Gold Coast mama.

Rain or shine, let your love take the spotlight

If your shoot is outdoors and it’s cloudy on the day don’t worry – overcast skies make for beautiful soft lighting and gorgeous photos. A sprinkle of rain, or a splash in a puddle brings out the playful side in all of us, and can inspire some of the most authentic, core-memory making moments.

Photographing the Seasons of Parenthood

With a deep breath and a little trust sometimes it’s just sweeter to embrace the beautiful mess of parenting. These moments deserve to be captured and cherished, just as much as the planned and polished ones – this is what inspired my upcoming Yeah the Boys minis (the perfect gift for Fathers Day) and my much sought after Daisy Field Minis. 

Family photo sessions should be fun.. For you too, mama! And sometimes it’s comforting just to know that you don’t have to handle it all yourself, that’s where I can help! 

As your personal family record keeper, I’m not just there to record your moments on the day, but to guide you through the journey. From our first ‘hello!’ until your lovingly curated and handcrafted album is held in your hands.

I hope you feel a little lighter after reading through this list of what to pack for a family photoshoot. I’d love to hear any tips or tricks you know to make planning for the fam that little bit easier, and any mess free, wholesome grab and go snack ideas! Connect with me over on Instagram or join my little email list to share the love.

Big hugs,
Jayde