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

As a decade long wedding and family photographer, I truly understand how stressful preparing for photos can be. I’ve personally been there myself, torn between pushing through the nerves or skipping portraits altogether. Over the years, I’ve learned that with the right preparation, sessions can really be fun, feel easier, and way more comfortable.  

Here are my pro tips for conquering session anxiety so you can fully enjoy your session and photos. 

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 accordingly to become and feel more confident. 

One of the biggest causes of anxiety is uncertainty. But planning helps replace that uncertainty with confidence. When I work with clients, I help coordinate styling and outfit choices, session details, and everything you need from the very beginning. 

Some of the best tips:

• 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 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 (steaming, checking for stains, etc) and confirm your session details like where to park, what time it starts and expected traffic times.  

The morning of: Always remember to eat something and triple check your session details and traffic. ( This is also a great time for a pep talk with the kids or family! )

Getting ready: Ladies should start first then help the family out so no one feels rushed. 

Before leaving: Double check your traffic an hour before the session starts, figure out your parking, and gather any props, inspiration and posing ideas you have.

Arrival: Arrive early to settle in, park, and shake off any nerves!

After the session: Go celebrate and relax! 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 to look forward to not just something to get through. 

My final thoughts, as a decade long Atlanta Photographer  

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

I’d love to be your photographer and book your dream session!

With all my love,
Kattie