Before you arrive for your photo shoot:

Make sure all members of the shoot are well rested and have full tummies before arrival, no one looks their best when tired and hungry.  This is especially important for children ensuring they are in the best mood and more likely to cooperate.

Choose your clothing carefully – avoid bright colours and busy prints (ie: stripes, plaid & dots) as they do not photograph well and detract from your face creating a “busy” portrait.  It is a good idea to avoid large logos on clothing as these also command attention detracting from the face.  Having a similar colour range amongst groups works really well and ensures the eye is not drawn to any one member in the finished photographs and creates a sense of unity. Make sure clothing is ironed if necessary.

Ensure that you have groomed yourself (and family) appropriately, ie: clean styled hair and make-up applied if required (if you are getting a make-up package ensure your skin has been cleansed and moisturised before arriving, if you are getting a hair package please ensure your hair is clean and dry).  Check your teeth are clean.  Bring lip balm or lipstick, brush and combs with you for touch-ups if necessary.

Plan the photography shoot for a time when your children will be their happiest (ie. After nap time for infants and babies)