Greetings


Hi dads,


If you’ve ever shown up to a photo session wondering what exactly you’re supposed to be doing—you’re not alone.


This is for the dads who want to help, but aren’t quite sure how to make the whole experience feel easier, calmer, and actually enjoyable for everyone involved.


The good news? You don’t have to do much—but what you do matters more than you think.


I’m here to help you feel confident, prepared, and maybe even a little excited about the experience ahead.


Thank you for being part of what makes these moments meaningful for your family.


Here’s a simple guide to help keep things smooth, relaxed, and stress-free during your session. No pressure—just a few small things that make a big difference.


Best,

~Nicole

Dad's cheat sheet infographic for a stress-free photo session with tips on setting tone, posing, and connecting with family.

1. Set the tone


Your energy leads the family. If you stay calm and easygoing, everyone else tends to follow. Think relaxed, not rushed.

Happy family with young child sitting together on floor, parents kissing baby in bright, minimalist home setting.. Minnesota milestone photo
Couple in white tops and jeans share a tender forehead touch while cradling a baby bump in a bright studio maternity photo.

2. Before you leave


Before heading out for your session:


  • Make sure everyone has eaten something
  • Pack water, snacks, wipes, and essentials for kids
  • Double-check outfits are ready to go
  • Try to avoid overtired or overly rushed timing


It doesn’t have to be perfect—just prepared enough.

Family with two young children and a French Bulldog sitting on hay bales in a sunny autumn meadow.

3. Expect real life


Kids may get silly, shy, energetic, or emotional. That’s completely normal. Some of the best images come from the in-between moments, not perfectly posed ones.

In central Minnesota a Family enjoying fall picnic outdoors with orange pumpkins and checkered blanket at sunset.
In central Minnesota a couple walks hand in hand down a leaf-covered autumn trail surrounded by colorful fall foliage. Maternity Session

4. Be the calm anchor


Before heading out for your session:


  • Stay patient if things feel chaotic for a moment
  • Follow direction when given (it helps everything move smoothly)
  • Encourage your partner and kids instead of correcting or directing
  • Let moments unfold naturally


Every moment does not have to be spent making kids behave.

Couple shares intimate moments in a natural outdoor setting with soft lighting.

5. Focus on connection, not posing


  • Play with your kids
  • Dance together
  • Hold hands, walk together, cuddle in close
  • Whisper jokes or stories
  • Enjoy your people instead of trying to “perform”
A tender embrace between two people joyfully spinning in a lush green forest setting. Princeton MN Milestone, Maternity and Newborn P
A family stands together in a mountain meadow filled with blooming pink wildflowers on a misty summer day.

6. Trust the process


You don’t need to know what’s next—that’s what I’m here for. Just show up and be present with your family.


The goal isn’t perfection—it’s capturing your family as you truly are right now.


Looking forward to working with you,

~ Nicole