A Few things first...


Dear reader,


I am here to tell you a bit more about the family photoshoot. If you don’t know what to expect during the shoot, how to prepare, and how does it actually look, then you are in the right place.


Shooting a family portrait can be quite challenging especially when the small children are involved that’s why it’s so crucial to prepare well and know what to expect. Children tend to run around. Everything interests them so it’s difficult to get their attention. As I shoot mostly candid (unposed photos) and posed if you wish you don’t have to worry about standing in one place constantly asking your child to smile. I will do my best to cheer them up and keep them engaged. 


I always take the family portraits at the beginning when your children are easy to co-operate after we are done with that part they can run and play and you can do the same. I would like you to have fun and behave like it would be a time you spend together, talking, walking, playing and interacting with each other.

How to prepare for a family photoshoot? Emilia Czarnota Photography

How are we going to do that?


  1. We will have a proper chat before the shoot so we can meet each other. I would like to hear about you, your family and your kids. I will probably ask you some questions about how you spend your time together, what makes you laugh or even what makes your children angry. What we don’t want is upsetting your children so they will start crying or be unhappy. If a child doesn’t want to do something rather than make them sad we will skip the idea and try something different. 
  2. I will give you a few locations to choose from so we can be sure the surrounding will fit you. I am a proper nature lover who believes all the great backgrounds are there ready for you to explore and use them. We can choose between lakes, parks, mountains, city, your home, garden or any other place you think will be suitable.
  3. No rush I promise. We will take breaks if you need them. I want you to be 200% honest with me. If you don’t like the idea about something during the shoot tell me about it we will do something differently. You know your family best.
  4. Golden hour - we will shoot during magic golden hour either during sunrise or sunset. This sort of golden light makes everything look even more beautiful. If we can get some help from Mother Nature we will definitely do. Alternatively, if you are available only during the day or your kids are not exactly the early birds or they go to sleep early in the evening that’s fine we can work around it. We can do a lot of beautiful photos during the day as well.
  5. As per your outfits, I believe in your good taste in the case of clothing. My suggestions are always the colors. I will always advise muted colors like white, beige and pastels as they match any location but If you decide otherwise it will be my job to fit you in a good location so don’t worry. I would rather choose the same color pallet than ask everyone to wear what they want. If you dress similar the photos will be cohesive and therefore even more beautiful.
  6. Make sure you have plenty of water, children’s snacks and their favourite toys. We don’t want them to suddenly get angry because they are hungry and it happens a lot, especially with toddlers. You can also take your pram. Walking around with a toddler who does not walk or is getting tired quickly will be uncomfortable for you. If we meet in the park we may take a longer walk. Don’t worry we don’t have to include the pram in the photos it will stand by :)
  7. Depending on the location we choose you can take some extras like children’s small bikes, extra pice of clothing, balloons, soap bubbles, a blanket to sit on the grass or even a picnic basket if you wish to have a proper feast. A picnic is a great idea for a shoot! 


What’s more to add?


I do shoot usually up to 6 members. If your family is bigger let me know and we will discuss it. 

Let me take you on that journey to have a wonderful experience.

If you wish to enquire about anything do not hesitate to contact me. I am here to answer all your questions.


Your Photographer,

Emilia