Say Cheese (Without the Tears!): 5 Tired Mom Tips for Family Holiday Photos That Actually Work

Alright, moms and dads, gather ’round. The holidays are here, which means it’s time to corral your little (and not-so-little) humans into outfits, smiles, and a photo session that won’t end in tears or tantrums. As a photographer and a perpetually tired mom who’s been through this circus more times than I can count, I’ve got your back with the top 5 tips to make your family holiday photos actually fun — or at least survivable.

Tip #1: Schedule the Shoot When Everyone’s Still Semi-Functional

Trying to get your kids to smile at 7 pm after a day full of sugar, screen time, and sibling fights is like trying to herd cats — blindfolded. No one wins.

Pro Mom Move: Book your session when your kids are usually their happiest — maybe mid-morning or right after nap time (if you’re lucky). Trust me, it’s way easier to capture smiles when they’re not ready to collapse into a pile of exhaustion.

I'll get the smiles - I promise*!

Tip #2: Keep Outfits Simple, Comfortable, and Laundry-Friendly

I get it, you want those perfectly coordinated sweaters that scream “holiday magic.” But when your toddler’s outfit requires a PhD to put on and your teen looks like they’re attending a gala (in protest), it’s a no-go.

Mom Truth: Choose outfits that won’t spark a meltdown before you leave the house. Soft fabrics, layers for warmth, and something that doesn’t require dry cleaning. Bonus points if your kids don’t look like walking Christmas ornaments.

Not matchy match - just coordinated gold.

Tip #3: Bring Snacks, Toys, and Bribery Tools — Lots of Them

Hunger + boredom = meltdown. It’s science.

Mom Strategy: Pack an emergency kit with snacks, water, favorite toys, and whatever small bribes get your crew cooperating. (For me, it’s usually promises of extra screen time or a Christmas cookie afterward.)

If candy isn't your jam - bring your pups! Sometimes having that comfort source there brings out the real smiles!

Tip #4: Let Go of the “Perfect” and Embrace the Real Moments

Here’s the truth: your family isn’t a magazine ad. And honestly? The best photos are the ones where your kid’s head is tilted weirdly, your spouse’s tie is crooked, and everyone’s laughing at a silly joke instead of staring stiffly at the camera.

Mom Wisdom: Focus on fun, connection, and those genuine smiles. The goofy, imperfect moments are what you’ll actually want to remember.

I mean - does it get more real than this? If you have a sense of humor this is family photo GOLD

Tip #5: Trust Your Photographer (And Their Patience)

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking, “But what if they don’t cooperate?” That’s why hiring a photographer who’s chill, patient, and knows how to work with kids (and tired parents) is a game-changer.

Mom Advice: Pick someone who makes the shoot feel like a mini party — someone who can turn chaos into magic. That’s how you get photos that don’t just look good, but feel good too. As someone who was an elementary school teacher for 14 years - I've seen and heard it all - please do not stress and know that I can handle just about anything - including your child spontaneously vomiting during our session. Yes, it's happened.

Hey - I may even end up your little's new best friend once photos are done! :) I think they can all sense I was a teacher. <3

Bonus Bonus Tip: Plan What You’ll Actually Do With the Photos.

Don’t let your gorgeous holiday shots sit forgotten on your phone forever. Order those prints, make your cards, frame that goofy family photo for the mantel — whatever makes you smile every time you see it.

Holiday photos don’t have to be stressful, they just need a little planning, a lot of patience, and maybe a few cookies. Ready to create some memories (and laughs) with your family this season?

Book your stress-free, fun holiday photo session today at www.melanie-wright-photography.com!