Booking family portraits or a wedding photographer should feel exciting but for many people, it sparks anxiety instead.

As both a mother and decade long Atlanta Family Photographer, I understand how stressful preparing for photos can be. I’ve been there myself, torn between pushing through the nerves and stress or skipping portraits altogether. But over the years, I’ve learned that with the right preparation, sessions can be enjoyed, feel easier, and more comfortable.  

Here are my favorite pro tips for conquering your session anxiety so you can finally enjoy getting your photos taken. 

husband and wife embracing during winter maternity session by georgia family photographer kattie jackson
End of fall early winter maternity session by georgia family photographer, kattie jackson


1: Talk with your photographer (more than you think)

My favorite way to feel comfortable is to build a connection before the camera ever comes out. It should be a priority to get to know my clients ahead of time to help them feel more comfortable.

Talking is the most natural way to feel at ease! I couldn’t imagine meeting a client for the first time without some kind of conversation. Now I’ll admit, I’m a chronic over-sharer and always lean heavily towards being relatable, because it helps break down walls quickly.

What I learn more about you, your partner, or your family will help me direct your prompts to create genuine interaction. Small connections and shared authentic moments help create portraits that feel documentary, natural, and completely authentic. Stiffness and overthinking never make for good photos!



2. Plan ahead & feel confident 

One of the biggest causes of anxiety is uncertainty. Planning helps replace uncertainty with confidence. When I work with clients, I help coordinate styling and outfit choices, session details, and everything you need (or question) from the very beginning. Booking in advance also helps you, as a client:

  • Shop for outfits and accessories that make you feel confident 
  • Try on clothing to ensure comfort and coordination 
  • Create a mood board for inspiration (hello, Pinterest board)
  • Review session details like timing, parking, and any walking involved. 


Even though we can’t plan for every single moment, having a roadmap sets the stage for a smooth, stress free experience. Need help with outfits? Chat with your photographer about what would look best!

3. Turn your photo session into an event 

The best way to reduce stress is to treat your portraits as more than just a thing to do but as a moment to celebrate your story! Even when I plan my own photos, I create a schedule that makes the entire time enjoyable, not rushed. 


Here’s my go-to routine for a stress free session: 


the night before: lay out and prep outfits and confirm session details 

the morning of: eat breakfast/ lunch and double check detauls, travel time, parking, etc.

getting ready: Mamas start first then help the family so no one feels rushed. 

before leaving: double check traffic, parking, any props, inspiration and posing ideas. 

arrival: arrive early to settle in, park, and shake off any nerves.

after the session: Celebrate! Go out for food since you’re already dress up or head home and throw on your favorite cozy pajamas and a movie. 


When you plan your time this way, it becomes an experience and something you all can look forward to, not just something to get through. 

My Final thoughts as a decade long Atlanta family and wedding photographer  

Portraits aren’t just pictures , they’re your life moments and memories being doucmented to cherish forever. By connecting with your photographer, planning intentionally, and making the session an experience, you’ll walk away with portraits you love and memories you enjoyed creating.