The biggest thing to remember?

None of these things are essential by any means — honestly, the most important thing you can bring is yourselves and the mindset to slow down, be present, and just spend time together.

But if you’re wondering what can be helpful during a family session, especially with little ones involved, here are a few ideas that can make things feel a little easier and more relaxed.


Snacks and drinks for restlessness (and bribery haha), comfort and sentimental items, blankets for rugging up or laying on the ground, spare clothes, speaker, jackets and layers and pyjamas for the ride home.


Little more detailed breakdown:


Snacks

Snacks can honestly save the day sometimes.

I always recommend bringing a few easy, low-mess snacks that won’t stain clothes or leave sticky fingers five minutes into the session.

Some great options:

crackers

sultanas

yoghurt melts

plain popcorn

mini rice cakes

And of course, a favourite little treat because yes… bribery is sometimes part of the parenting package. No judgement here.


Comfort Items

This could be a dummy, favourite teddy, blanket, toy, or anything that helps your little one feel safe and settled if they become overwhelmed.

But honestly, these items often become some of the most meaningful things to document too.

Those little comfort items are part of this season too.


Blankets

Blankets are always a good idea.

Perfect for:

rugging up when it cools down

cuddling together during sunset sessions

laying down on the grass

wrapping newborns

creating a relaxed little spot to sit and connect

Textured, neutral blankets photograph beautifully, but honestly anything cozy works.


Spare Clothes

Unfortunately… spare clothes can sometimes be absolutely vital.

Especially with newborns, toddlers, or adventurous little humans who somehow find every puddle within a 10km radius.

From inevitable newborn blowouts to muddy knees and snack disasters, having a backup outfit tucked in the car can be a lifesaver.

Shoes for Walking Between Spots

I absolutely love barefoot photos and encourage families to kick their shoes off during the session if it feels natural.

But I always recommend bringing comfortable shoes for the in-between moments, especially if we’re walking through paddocks, bush tracks, gravel, or moving between locations.

Your feet will thank you later.


Drinks

Water is always a good idea — especially during warmer sessions.

If you have little ones who still take a bottle, bringing their milk bottle can also help keep them settled for longer.


Sentimental Items

These are the things that often end up meaning the most years later.

This could be:

an ultrasound photo

a favourite book you read together every night

a hand-knitted beanie from a grandparent

a family heirloom

flowers picked from your garden

your kids’ gumboots they refuse to take off lately

These little pieces of your real life help tell your story in a way that feels personal and honest.


Music or a Speaker

This one surprises people sometimes, but music can completely change the feel of a session.

A little speaker with your favourite songs can help everyone relax, loosen up, dance around, and stop focusing so much on the camera.

Some of the best moments happen when everyone forgets they’re being photographed.


Jackets & Layers

Especially during the cooler months, layers are a must.

If little ones are cold and uncomfortable, they’re usually not going to enjoy themselves much… and connection always matters more to me than perfectly styled outfits.

Bring jackets, knits, coats, blankets, and layers you can easily throw on between photos if needed.


Pyjamas for the Drive Home

This one is especially helpful for younger kiddos if your sunset session is going to cut into the bedtime routine a little.

Bringing their pyjamas along to throw on before you leave means they’re warm, cozy, and ready to jump straight into bed once you get home.

Even packing a toothbrush in the car can be helpful too… because there’s a very real chance they’ll fall asleep on the drive home after all the running around and fresh air.


And finally, don’t stress too much.

Bring the essentials, leave the pressure at home, and focus on simply being together. The best photos almost always happen in the in-between moments anyway.


I’ll take care of the rest.

Family of four posing in golden field, mother holding baby in carrier, father with toddler on shoulders, autumn outdoor portrait.
Black and white photo of a smiling toddler in knit sweater and overalls, held by parents sitting outdoors.
A young blonde mother in a cream knit sweater tenderly holds her sleeping newborn baby outdoors in a park.
Children playing on a fallen tree in a sunny green meadow with rolling hills and blue sky in the background.
Black and white photo of a father tossing his young son high into the air outdoors at sunset.
Three young girls in white and rust dresses walk hand-in-hand through golden grass fields with trees in background.

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Two people walking beneath a large eucalyptus tree on a green hill against a clear blue sky.

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