Planning for outdoor family photos in Nashville is exciting, especially when you’re creating memories for your family and artwork for your home. But if you’re a parent, you know that getting kids ready for anything—let alone a photo session—can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Here are my best tips to help you prepare your children (and yourself!) for a seamless and joyful outdoor family photo experience.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day
Outdoors lighting is key to creating the stunning images you’re looking for, and the best times are going to be late afternoon to evening, depending on the time of the year. This is when the “golden hour” provides soft, flattering light & dreamy sunsets. My calendar is filled with the exact sunset time year round so I can plan your session accordingly.
2. Dress for Comfort and Style
Outdoor family photos in Nashville can be taken in ALL of seasons and weather. When choosing outfits for your kids, prioritize comfort. If they’re uncomfortable or fidgety because of itchy fabrics or too-tight clothing, it’ll show in the photos. If they’re too cold or too warm in photos that also shows. While I do have a full wardrobe for your entire family and can help you coordinate clothing for the time of the year, if you are bringing your own be sure it can stand up to that day’s weather.
3. Prepare for Nashville’s Outdoor Elements
Nashville’s outdoor settings are stunning, but they come with their own quirks. Bugs, unpredictable weather, and muddy paths are part of the experience. If you aren’t feeling ‘outdoorsy’ for your family’s photos – my private downtown Franklin studio is always available for your family.
- Bring the insect repellent your family loves to keep bugs at bay, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
- Pack wipes or a small towel in case of spills, dirt, or sticky fingers.
- Have a weather plan! Personally I’m part photographer, part meteorologist when it comes to prepping for your outdoor session, so if weather looks bad, I always have reschedule dates for you.
4. Turn It Into an Adventure
Kids thrive on fun and play, so frame the photo session as an exciting adventure rather than something formal. Tell them you’re exploring a new park, playing dress-up, or going on a “family date.”
If your kids are excited and engaged, they’re more likely to cooperate. Bringing along a favorite toy or prop can also make them feel more at ease—and sometimes these items even add a unique personal touch to your photos.
5. Set Realistic Expectations
Let’s face it: kids are unpredictable. There’s a good chance your toddler won’t sit still, or your preschooler might make silly faces for half the session — and that’s okay & normal.
Candid moments often give us the joy and authenticity of your family better than posed ones. Trust me to guide the session and photograph those in-between moments of laughter, connection, and love.
6. Talk to Your Kids Ahead of Time
Before the session, explain what’s going to happen in simple, positive terms. For example, you could say, “We’re going to take pictures together as a family in a really pretty park. It’s going to be so much fun!”
You might also let older kids know that they’ll be helping make the session fun for everyone. Giving them a sense of responsibility can encourage cooperation.
7. Choose the Right Photographer
A great family photographer doesn’t just know how to work a camera—they also know how to work with kids (and let’s face it, grumpy dads, too!) Choose a photographer who specializes in family sessions and is patient, flexible, and able to make your kids laugh. (oh hey there, on year 15 of specializing in this over here if you’re looking!)
8. Relax and Enjoy the Moment
Finally, remember that your kids will take their cues from you. If you’re stressed, they’ll pick up on it. Instead, focus on enjoying the time together as a family. Laugh, play, and be present—you’ll end up with photos that reflect the genuine connection and love you share.
Preparing your kids for outdoor family photos in Nashville doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and the right mindset, your session can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. And when you look back at the photos years from now, you’ll be so happy you took the time to create these family heirlooms together.
Hi! I’m so thankful you are checking out my work here at my website and blog. A little more about my studio… I have a full, size inclusive, studio wardrobe, with of over 200 dresses and robes for moms (size 0 – 26) from my favorite places like some of the clothing above along with hundreds of choices for babies, children, and shirts for men. Hair and makeup is also available before your session to make your session as simple and stress free as possible. All you need to do is arrive and snuggle your babies.
Wondering how to best prepare your children for outdoor family photos in Nashville? Jenny Cruger has specialized in family photos since 2010.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for outdoor family photos in Nashville I would love to begin planning your session. With 14+ years of specializing in my favorite ages of tiny humans, maternity, newborn, and young families and I would love to photograph your family’s session. To see more of my child & family portfolio please click over here and get in touch if this is something you would love for your family.
Wondering what full sessions look like? I would be happy to show you what an entire gallery looks like while this blog space receives new posts, including older sessions mixed among new session sneak peeks. I feel strongly that potential clients are able to see many full galleries of real sessions so you know exactly what to expect from your portraits as well! If you are interested in a custom portrait session with Jenny Cruger Photography and would like more information, please click here to learn more about me and this experience.
I’m currently reserving family sessions into all of 2025. If you would like to reserve your Nashville area family photos, in my downtown Franklin studio or field, on my calendar I would love for you to contact me here.
