Eating corndogs and slurping Oreo milkshakes at the state fair. Apple picking on the farm. That denim jumper and red boots combo your oldest daughter wore every fall. Without even realizing it, we’re making memories that turn into family traditions. But without photos that preserve an era, like when you lived a block away from your husband’s parents, or when your 8-year old son still fit in your arms, or even when your little girl’s hair was golden blonde and curly—those memories start to fade faster than we’d like.
That’s why we always encourage families to schedule Dallas family photography sessions, at least every few years—or more often if you’ve got a newborn. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
So, let’s talk about why you need both polished family portraits AND those playful, candid shots, plus some posing tips to make your next session truly unforgettable. And with the holidays just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to get those family photos done, don’t you think?
Show Off Your Family’s Personality
When booking a Dallas family photography session, it’s all about capturing who your family really is—not just what you look like. Of course, you’ll want a classic, posed shot for Grandma and Grandpa’s gallery wall, but the real magic is in those candid, fun moments. Let your kids run wild! Whether they’re throwing fall leaves in the air, making goofy faces, or cracking each other up, those are the shots you’ll look back on and smile.
Some of the best photos are the ones you didn’t plan—your kids laughing so hard they fall over, chasing each other around, or your toddler flashing a mischievous grin mid-chaos. These are the moments that show who your family really is, and trust me, these will be the pictures you frame and treasure.
Posing Tips for Fun, Natural Shots
Getting everyone to feel comfortable in front of the camera is key to getting those candid shots. Here are a few tips from our photographer Jayme to help you loosen up and get the most out of your Dallas family photography session:
- Get the kids moving. Spin around, throw them in the air, or just go for a little walk. We’ll be capturing everything on camera. The more relaxed you are, the better the photos we can shoot.
- Have siblings interact with each other. Maybe a tickle fight or a big group hug. Capture the energy and laughter of your family’s real-life moments.
- Whether it’s leaves, flowers, or their favorite stuffed animal, small props can help your kids feel comfortable and add a bit of personality to the session.
Why You Still Want Those Polished Portraits
Even though candid shots are gold, there’s definitely something to be said for a nice, polished family portrait. These are the ones you’ll want to print big and hang up in your home. You need a classic family photo with everyone looking their best, giving soft smiles, and just looking like they have it all together (even if we all know what went on behind the scenes, ha!) These formal photos will have a timeless quality, thanks to our photogapher Jayme’s clean and elegant style.
Posing Tips for Polished Portraits
When you want that Royal family shot in your Dallas family photography session, keep these tips in mind:
- Parents in the back or on either side, kids up front and in the middle. This creates a natural, clean look.
- Instead of those stiff, jack-o-lantern grins, crack a joke to encourage natural smiles. Trust me, it looks way better in the long run!
- Even in posed photos, subtle touches like a hand on your daughter’s shoulder or a glance at your spouse can make the picture feel warm and real.
Make It Last: Custom Photo Albums and Art Books
After your session, you’ll have a mix of fun, candid moments and those more formal shots. Why not turn them into a custom photo album or Miette Art Book? Flipping through pages of your family all dressed up, followed by those silly moments where your kids were being totally themselves. It’s the best way to tell the whole story of your family in one collection.
Ready to Book Your Dallas Family Photography Session?
If you’re ready to get both the classic and the candid shots, we’ve got you covered. Book your Dallas family photography session with Miette today and let’s create a mix of stunning portraits and fun, natural moments. And don’t forget—when you book, you’ll get the option for a custom photo album or art book to relieve these memories over and over again.