Your 7 Tips for a Relaxed & Fun Family Photo Session in Maryland, Washington DC & Northern Virginia
Blog post description.
Sonia Greenaway Mickle
7/14/20264 min read
7 Tips for a Relaxed & Fun Family Photo Session in Maryland, Washington DC & Northern Virginia
1. Choose the Right DMV Family Photographer
The most important decision you'll make is choosing a family photographer whose style and personality are the right fit for your family.
As a family photographer serving Maryland, Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia, I believe the best photographs happen when everyone feels comfortable enough to simply be themselves. While I absolutely create beautiful portraits, my favorite images are the candid, in-between moments—the laughter after a silly joke, the tight hugs, the playful tickles, and the genuine smiles that can't be posed.
Children don't need to sit perfectly still. They need the freedom to explore, laugh, and interact with the people they love most. My job is to gently guide your family while creating an experience that's relaxed, fun, and stress-free.
If that sounds like the kind of family photo session you're looking for, I'd love to connect and see if we're the perfect fit.
2. Coordinate Your Outfits—Don't Worry About Matching
One of the biggest questions I receive is, "What should we wear?"
The good news is that coordinating photographs work much better than matching.
Choose a color palette instead of identical outfits (that's of course unless you are going for identical... it's a choice). Soft neutrals, earth tones, creams, blues, sage greens, and warm browns create a timeless look that won't go out of style. Adding very subtle textures or fairly simple patterns create visual interest without distracting from what matters most—your family.
Most importantly, wear clothing that feels comfortable and makes you feel confident. When you feel good, it naturally shows in your photographs.
To make planning easy, every family that books with me receives my complimentary What to Wear Guide for outfit inspiration and styling tips.
3. Choose a Location That Reflects Your Family
The DMV is full of beautiful locations for family photography—from scenic parks and open fields to gardens and waterfronts throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
Together, we can choose a location that fits your family's personality and style.
Whether your family loves wide-open spaces, peaceful nature trails, or an urban setting, selecting a place where everyone feels comfortable helps create photographs that feel natural and authentic.
Don't worry if you're unsure where to go—I have favorite locations and will help you choose.
4. Think Happy Kids First...Beautiful Light Second
Photographers love Golden Hour for its soft, glowing light—and yes, it's absolutely beautiful.
But here's a little secret.
A happy, playful family in good light will always create more meaningful photographs.
I love photographing children exactly as they are—running, laughing, and playing. Those genuine interactions tell your family's story far better than perfectly posed smiles ever could.
My goal is to create a relaxed environment where everyone can simply enjoy spending time together while I capture the moments you'll treasure for years to come.
5. Bring the Little Things That Make a Big Difference
If you have younger children, a little preparation goes a long way.
Pack a few favorite snacks, water, and perhaps a beloved stuffed animal or small toy for comfort between photos. These familiar items can help little ones reset if they need a quick break.
The happier everyone is, the smoother the session will be—and that's exactly what we're aiming for. I also try to bring a little something something, such as those cute bottles of water from Costco!! 🙂
6. Forget Perfect—Embrace the Moments
Here's one of the biggest secrets to beautiful family photography:
Perfection isn't the goal.
Connection is.
Some of my favorite photographs happen between poses.
Those unscripted moments are the ones that become treasured family memories.
7. It's a Fun Process, Enjoy the Experience
Family sessions are a different experience, sometimes a new experience . Meant to be enjoyed.
Hope you will find it that way. Okay.
I've lived in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia for years and I have an eye for the beauty of this area and the beauty in family. I'm here to create, combine these two elements, and bring out the best.
I'll guide you every step of the way—from finding flattering light and natural posing, to keeping everyone relaxed and engaged. You don't have to worry about what to do or where to stand.
Simply trust the process, enjoy your family, and let yourselves be present.
These Are Special Moments In Time
A family photo session isn't just about updating your holiday card or hanging a new portrait on the wall.
It's about preserving this chapter of your family's story, slowing down, and acknowledging special moments in time.
The hugs.
The energy.
The quiet moments of connection.
Years from now, these photographs will remind you exactly how this season of life felt.
My hope is that every time you look at your images, you're reminded not only of what your family looked like—but of the joy you shared together. That's how I feel about my family's pictures...I love seeing pictures of my sons Miles and Cameron, and my hubby Rodney, and the rest of my family, throughout the years.
And that's the greatest gift photography can give.
Sonia Greenaway Mickle is a family, senior and lifestyle photographer based out of Fort Washington Maryland and Northern Virginia and serves the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Her goal is to bring out every individual’s personality in their images and she's dedicated to making sure that every session is unique and different so that you enjoy your images that reflect you and only you. After your session, she wants you to know that you're special and valued. Sonia is now booking family sessions, as well as senior and lifestyle sessions.
