What to Bring to a Photoshoot When You Have Kids
Post Summary
Wondering what to bring to a photoshoot with kids? This post gives you the quick list and the thoughtful tips to make your next family photo session smooth, fun, and stress-free. From must-have items to avoid-the-meltdown snacks, here’s everything you need to know. Includes a free printable checklist.
What to Bring to a Photoshoot with Kids
You’re probably Googling what to bring to a photoshoot while juggling naps and snack time. You want to make sure nothing is forgotten but without lugging your whole house. In this post, I’ll walk you through what to pack, what to skip, and how to show up calm, comfy, and ready for magic.
What to Bring to a Photoshoot: The Essentials
Busy parents, this is your pack-light list. Keep it simple and bring:
- A small backpack or tote (phones, keys, wallet)
- Wet wipes (crumbs, snot, car snack emergencies)
- Comb or hairbrush (wind + toddlers = wild hair)
- Light jacket or sweater (golden hour can get chilly fast)
- Water + low-mess snacks (think marshmallows or white chocolate)
- Skip the stroller (if we’re shooting on a trail or beach)
- Pet treats (if your pup is joining the fun)
Why What You Bring Can Make or Break Your Photoshoot
Your goal? A stress-free, beautiful session.
You don’t need a diaper bag bursting with “just in case” gear. You need a short, thoughtful list so you can show up present, not panicked. Most of my clients are balancing everything between work, kids, snacks, naps and just want a session that feels easy. This list helps you do just that.
Client voice: “I kept it so simple, I was shocked by how smooth it went.”
Real Talk: When What You Bring Changes Everything
The Windy Beach Story
We had a session at the beach. The sky was a literal dream with the perfect shades of blue, wispy clouds, golden glow. The family’s outfits matched the sunset. Everything was perfect… until the wind picked up. Her hair tangled like crazy. We tried smoothing it with fingers, but a simple comb would’ve fixed it instantly. That one forgotten item kept the shoot from being 100% magic.
Client voice: “Next time, I’m packing a hairbrush. Lesson learned!”
The Trail Session That Got Unstuck
A family arrived with a stroller, jackets, a backpack… all the things. But the location? A beautiful, narrow trail. That stroller was not going to work. They ended up putting it back in the car. Baby in arms, toddler exploring on foot and suddenly, we were able to sneak into wooded nooks and find hidden light pockets for stunning shots.
Client voice: “My toddler didn’t even ask for the stroller. He thought we were on an adventure!”
What to Bring to a Photoshoot: Must-Haves for Comfort and Connection
1. Bring a Comb or Brush
Wind, baby snuggles, car seats can all messes with your hair. A quick comb-through keeps you feeling polished and confident.
2. Pack Smart Snacks
Pick light-colored, non-sticky snacks like Cheerios, marshmallows, or mini white chocolate chips. They’re quick rewards for toddlers and don’t leave behind messes or stains.
3. Layers Keep Everyone Happy
Even in summer, golden hour on the Peninsula gets chilly. Bring light jackets that blend well with your outfits.
4. Go Stroller-Free (If You Can)
If your location includes trails or uneven ground, ditching the stroller helps us move more freely and access gorgeous natural backdrops.
5. Pup Coming Too? Bring Treats
They help your dog stay focused and camera-ready. Bonus points for a neutral leash that looks good in photos.
Pack Smart Snacks
What to bring to a photoshoot should always include a couple of quick, toddler friendly bites. The goal is simple. Keep kids happy without creating extra mess or stains.
Here are my favorite snacks for children at photoshoots that won’t stain teeth and keep little ones cheerful:
- White chocolates
- Mini Marshmellows
- Seven Sundays Oat Cereal Simply Honey: sweet and crunchy cereal
- Amara Organic Smoothie Melts: soft, quick, and mess‑free
What to Bring to a Photoshoot = Less Stress, More Magic
Your family session should feel calm, connected, and real. A few thoughtful items in your bag can make all the difference. When you show up prepared, but not overwhelmed, you make space for laughter, movement, and genuine moments.
Love the idea of a simple, joyful family session? Let’s make it happen.
If you love reading this blog, you will also love:
- What to Wear for Family Photoshoot: A Style Guide for Busy Moms
- Tips for Family Photos with Toddlers
- Photo Session With Dog Tips for Fun Relaxed Family Photos
READ LATEST
the
Welcome Friends, I'm Ellen
Photographer Serving the Bay Area Peninsula
I am a lifestyle and natural light photographer based in San Mateo County, serving families across the San Francisco Bay Area and Peninsula. I regularly photograph families in San Mateo, Burlingame, Palo Alto, Redwood City, and surrounding Peninsula communities.
I specialize in family, newborn, and maternity sessions that take place at home or outdoors, capturing genuine joy, connection, and beautifully candid moments.
Along with photography, I also offer cinematic highlight films to bring your family’s story to life in motion.
My sessions are fun, easy, and well guided. I use simple prompts and natural posing so you can relax, enjoy being together, and let me document the love and energy that make your family unique.
Photographer. Fitness lover. Wife. MOm. world traveler.
+ Show / Hide Comments
Share to: