1. Find the right photographer.

Best case scenario, meet your photographer to ensure there is mutual chemistry between the two of you. Bring your kids with you to see how they and the photographer relate to each other. Most photographers perform better when they have a good connection with a family, and visa versa. Most families will feel more relaxed and comfortable with someone they trust.

Review a photographer's portfolio, pricing and policies, and look at their social media pages and reviews. If you want a large portion of your session to be black and white, find a photographer who specializes in that. If you want a natural, candid session with minimal posing, find a photographer whose existing work reflects that. Do not wast time and energy hoping that the photographer will understand your vision, rather find someone who already does that.

2. Plan Ahead

All too often people spend the day or days before their session ruining around to get a hair cut, find clothing, and other items they believe they need for their session. If your photographer does not help you with clothing or location choices, take a few days to review locations yourself, visit clothing stores for color and clothing ideas, and ask your friends! They may have some ideas you might not have thought of.