How to make your next Santa Barbara family photo session a stress-free one.


Family photos are truly timeless and such a great keepsake for future generations. Getting the family together to take those portraits can turn into chaos if not approached correctly. There's usually a lot more to consider when it comes to a family photoshoot since there are members of all ages, which means that there's some extra coordination involved.

A family enjoying a candid moment together outdoors on a sunlit path.
A family walking together on a nature trail during golden hour.

Below are some ideas and tips to keep you and your loved ones calm and smiling the whole way through your Santa Barbara family photoshoot!

A cheerful young person with long hair smiling while leaning against a stone wall outdoors.
A smiling child wearing a brown fedora hat and white collared shirt.
A joyful moment shared between parent and baby dressed in formal attire outdoors.

Disconnect to reconnect


If you have younger children involved in the shoot, try to nap or have quiet time before the photoshoot. A well-rested child makes for happy photos. On that note, make sure that all family members have gotten enough sleep the night before as this helps with the fun and relaxation aspects of the session.

Dos and don’ts of bribery


Get your family excited about the photoshoot instead of offering a reward in return for their cooperation. This tends to lead to forced smiles and an irritated bunch of people. If you do have small children coming along it’s not a bad idea to give the photographer some bribery options in the form of toys or small food items to make those difficult moments a little easier

Relinquish control


As much as you’ll want to direct your children on where to stand and how to pose, it’s best to leave that to the photographer as they know what works best. Not having this pressure will also make you feel more relaxed.

It’s not just about the posing


The best photos happen when you’re having fun so joke and play with your children, hold your partner’s hand and just let the moments happen.

Keep those bellies full


If everyone is well fed before the photoshoot, it will run a lot smoother. It’s also not a bad idea to take a few (non-messy) snacks and some water along for those who might need it.

Enjoy capturing your memories!
A family sharing an affectionate embrace on a path with cacti in the background.
Two children playfully hanging from a tree branch in a garden setting.
A heartwarming outdoor portrait of siblings with sunlight streaming through the background.
Family enjoying a golden sunset moment together in a natural outdoor setting with warm backlighting.
Black and white portrait of tender family moment outdoors among natural scenery.
Candid family photo session on rocks during golden hour in a natural setting.
Joyful candid moment captured outdoors during golden hour with natural backlight.
Family sitting together in tall grass under large oak tree at sunset.
Family gathering in golden field beneath sprawling oak tree during sunset.
Family spending time together outdoors on blanket during sunset photo session.
Intimate family moment captured in golden field beneath large oak tree.
Casual family portrait session in tall grass field during golden hour.
Black and white family portrait beneath sprawling tree in natural field setting.
A family shares an intimate moment together on a blanket in a golden field at sunset beneath a large oak tree.
Family members sit together in a sunlit meadow having a tender moment beneath a sprawling tree.