Let’s be real, when it comes to family photos, there’s always one person who’s really excited (hi, that’s you!) and one who… well, let’s just say they’re less than thrilled. Whether your partner dreads getting in front of the camera or just doesn’t understand the hype, I’ve got you covered on how to prep your partner for a family photoshoot

Here’s how to get them prepped and (maybe even) excited for your next family photoshoot.

1. Set Expectations Early

If your partner is the type to resist anything that requires getting dressed up and standing still, give them a heads-up. Let them know:

• When and where the shoot is happening
• How long it will take (spoiler: it’s usually shorter than they expect!)
• That their job is literally just to show up and love on their family

When they know what to expect, they’re less likely to groan about it at the last minute.

2. Keep the Outfits Simple

Partners tend to panic when they hear the word “coordinating.” Reassure them that this isn’t about matching outfits—just choosing colors that work together. If they’re struggling, give them two easy options and let them pick. Bonus tip: avoid anything too tight or uncomfortable, because if they’re annoyed at their outfit, it’ll show in the photos.

3. Hype Up the ‘Why’

Most partners aren’t into photoshoots just for fun—but they are into making you happy. Instead of saying, “We have to do family photos,” try:

• “I really want these pictures of us with the kids before they grow up too fast.”
• “I know you don’t love pictures, but it would mean so much to me to have these memories.”

It’s harder to say no to something that actually matters.

4. Make It Fun (and Maybe Add a Bribe 😆)

Let’s be honest—bribery works at every age. If your partner is really dragging their feet, offer something fun in return:

• A favorite meal after the session
• Grabbing a drink together once it’s over
• A “get-out-of-a-chores-free” pass (hey, it works!)

Plus, remind them that the best family sessions are not stiff or awkward. We’ll move around, laugh, and capture real moments.

5. Trust Your Photographer

As a South Carolina family photographer, I’ve seen it all—partners who roll their eyes, cross their arms, and mutter, “Let’s get this over with.” And guess what? They almost always leave saying, “That wasn’t as bad as I thought!”

The key? Keeping things light, easy, and natural. So if your partner is nervous or just not into it, don’t stress—I’ve got this!

If you’re ready to capture memories without the stress (or forcing fake smiles), let’s make it happen! I hope you enjoyed reading about how to prep your partner for a family photoshoot. Reach out to book your family session by clicking here, and I promise, even your partner will have a good time. 😉

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Kind Words

“Janice is an amazing family photographer. This year, our family went from one grandchild to five! Janice understood our time constraints for photographing four children under 1 yrs of age. She worked around the children’s schedule and was able to get all the children looking at the camera at the same time!! Our family now has the most memorable pictures of our family beach vacation…10 adults, 5 children and 2 dogs!! We look forward to documenting our family every year with Janice!!” -Carol