Picture this: you’ve booked your photographer, got all the outfits coordinated (including that late-night run to Walmart for the matching t-shirt), and it’s finally session day. You walk out the door with high hopes—and a packet of gummy bears in your pocket for backup.

But then, a quarter of the way in, your kids start melting. Literally. They’re sweaty, cranky, and, at one point, on the verge of tears.

That was me a few years ago during one of our first family sessions. I remember thinking, How could I—someone who photographs families for a living—be having such a stressful experience? My children should’ve known this was their moment to shine!

Every mama wants those beautiful, heart-melting sibling photos. But if you’re anything like me, you might also worry about how your kids will cooperate. Over time, I’ve learned that sibling photos don’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. They just need to be real.

Here are a few lessons I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) to help you get the most out of your sibling photos:

kids playing in the water at a family session

Choose the Right Outfits for Your Kids

Let’s go back to that story. Mistake #1? The outfits. It was the middle of summer in Tennessee, and I had my poor boys in long denim overalls. I was going for that “cute farm look,” but all I got was sweaty, uncomfortable kids who wanted nothing to do with photos.

One of my sons is very particular about what he wears—comfort always comes first for him. That day, I learned that cute doesn’t matter if your kids aren’t comfortable.

So, my best advice? Choose outfits that make sense for the weather and your child’s comfort level. Soft, breathable fabrics in coordinating colors always photograph beautifully and help your little ones feel at ease.

Get the Timing Right for Sibling Photos

Here’s another lesson learned: tired kids don’t make for joyful photos. Don’t skip naps on session day (trust me on this one!).

If your kids tend to be happiest in the morning, consider scheduling a morning session when everyone’s fresh and cheerful.

During the shoot itself, I like to capture sibling photos early—right after the full family portrait—while everyone’s still engaged. I also pay close attention to their energy levels and cues. A good photographer will know when to shift gears, take a break, or sneak in some candid moments.

Find Stress-Free Sibling Photo Spots

When I’m scouting a location, I’m not just looking for the best light (though that’s always priority number one). I’m also looking for spots that invite play.

Maybe it’s a rock wall where they can perch side by side, or the low branch of an oak tree where they can nestle together. I want to create moments that feel natural—places that spark curiosity and allow siblings to interact in a way that feels genuine.

kids playing on the beach collecting shells at family session

Essential Sibling Poses That Always Work

A few tried-and-true setups I love:

The classic “give each other a hug” shot (this one melts me every time)
Holding hands and spinning in a circle
A quick game of red light/green light
Big sibling giving the little one a piggyback ride

Each of these encourages movement and laughter—two ingredients that make sibling photos feel full of life.

siblings posing on a rock at a family session

Turn Sibling Meltdowns Into Magic Moments

Here’s the secret: even when one child wants nothing to do with photos, there’s still beauty to be found. I never force participation. Instead, I let the less-interested sibling just be.

Sometimes they’ll wander off to smell flowers, count bugs, or collect seashells. And honestly? Those are often my favorite moments. These simple, unscripted interactions capture the essence of childhood—the way siblings connect when no one’s telling them how to pose.

Your Sibling Photos Can Be Beautiful and Enjoyable

Looking back, that meltdown session of mine didn’t ruin our photos at all. In fact, when our photographer delivered the gallery, I cried happy tears. There they were—my boys, sweaty hair and all—wrapped up in giggles, hugs, and love. It was real, and it was us.

So, mama, take a deep breath. Trust your photographer, and let go of those sky-high expectations. Your children don’t need to perform for the camera. They just need to be themselves.

And when you receive your photos, I hope you see what I saw: the magic in the imperfection, the love in the chaos, and the beauty in your family—just as it is.

Personal note:

As a photographer and a mama, I’ve learned that sibling photos are never about perfection. They’re about connection. Whether it’s laughter, hugs, or even a little chaos, those moments tell your family’s story. And that’s what makes them timeless.