How to Prepare for Your Philadelphia Family Portrait Session
Family portraits are more than just photos — they’re a pause in time. In the middle of busy schedules, growing kids, and everyday chaos, a family portrait session gives you space to slow down and simply be together.
This Philadelphia family session was a perfect example. Amber envisioned a soft, pastel-toned city shoot that felt polished but relaxed — and she absolutely nailed it. From styling to energy, the session felt effortless, joyful, and full of connection.
If you’re planning a family portrait session in Philadelphia, here’s how to prepare in a way that keeps things stress-free and genuinely enjoyable.
Why Philadelphia Is a Beautiful Backdrop for Family Portraits
Philadelphia offers a unique mix of history, texture, movement, and light. The city brings character into family portraits without overpowering the people in them.
Urban sessions work especially well for families who want something a little different — portraits that feel modern, timeless, and full of life. The architecture, city lines, and reflected light create a dynamic environment that encourages natural interaction and movement rather than stiff posing.
The city doesn’t replace the story — it supports it.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Family
When selecting a location, think less about “what’s popular” and more about what fits your family’s personality.
Some families are drawn to quiet, tucked-away streets. Others love the boldness of a city backdrop. The goal is to choose a space where your family can relax, move comfortably, and connect naturally.
Accessibility matters too — especially with young kids. A location that allows for easy movement, minimal crowds, and flexibility will always lead to better images.
And remember: the location sets the stage, but your family is the focus.
What to Wear for a City Family Session
Clothing plays a huge role in how your images feel. The goal isn’t matching outfits — it’s coordination.
For this Philadelphia session, soft blues and pastel tones worked beautifully against the urban setting. City locations tend to pair best with:
Muted colors
Soft neutrals
Subtle textures
Think balance instead of bold patterns. Layers, gentle movement in fabric, and comfortable pieces photograph beautifully and help everyone feel at ease.
Most importantly, choose outfits that allow you — and your kids — to move freely. Comfort always shows in photographs.
Let the Moments Happen Naturally
The most meaningful family portraits don’t come from perfect poses. They come from real interaction.
Laughing together. Walking hand in hand. Kids being kids. These in-between moments often become the images families treasure the most.
Don’t worry about every detail being perfect. A little wind in the hair or movement in a dress adds life. Trust the process and allow space for authentic connection.
Trusting Your Photographer’s Guidance
A successful family session is a collaboration. Your photographer isn’t just there to take photos — they’re there to guide, observe, and create space for moments to unfold naturally.
Communicating your vision is important, but trusting your photographer’s experience is just as essential. Knowing when to step back, when to gently direct, and when to let things happen organically is what transforms a session into something truly special.
Amber trusted the process, and the result was a gallery full of warmth, movement, and genuine emotion.
Creating Images That Become Part of Your Family’s Story
When the session is over and you see your images for the first time, they become more than photographs. They become reminders — of this season, these personalities, and the way your family feels right now.
Whether displayed on your walls or preserved in an album, these portraits become part of your family’s visual history. A legacy that grows more meaningful with time.
That’s the true magic of a well-planned family portrait session.
Families often ask about planning sessions in the city — I’ve shared everything on my Philadelphia family photography page.
Warmly,
Dee Giumetti
Shooting Star Photography
