A real-life guide for relaxed, not-so-posed portraits (with snacks)
Session Guide
PLANNING YOUR family
to THE MAIN WEBSITE
I’m genuinely excited to photograph your crew. Whether we’re in your home, garden, or somewhere nearby you love, this guide is here to help you prep without overthinking it.
It covers the most common questions I get, things like “what time is best,” “what do we wear,” and “what if someone melts down mid-shoot?” (Short answer: we roll with it.)
I know family life is full. If you don’t have time to read every word, no pressure. But if you do want to feel a bit more grounded and ready before I show up with way too many cameras, this guide’s for you.
- Isabelle
Here’s the deal, your kids don’t need to perform for the camera. In fact, I don’t even want them to.
Kids will be kids. They’ll wiggle, snack, hide behind your leg, try to lick the camera (yep, it’s happened). And that’s not a problem, it’s part of the magic. Real expressions, real energy, real moments.
It’s totally normal if your usually confident kid suddenly clams up, or your quieter one decides today’s the day for chaos. They’re in a new situation with someone pointing a big camera at them. I expect a little weirdness.
Managing
little ones
(or: why I don’t expect your kids to behave like tiny influencers)
Best thing you can do? Stay relaxed. The more you go with the flow, the more they will too. If someone needs a snack break or a hug, we pause.
If there’s a meltdown, we pivot. I’ve done this a hundred times, and I’ve got tricks for most situations, including the high-speed toddler escape.
Pro tip: A few strategic bribes go a long way. Think snacks, favorite toys, or a post-shoot promise of ice cream. No judgment. I’d work for ice cream too.
Newborn
You’ve likely realized this by now, but babies can be a bit messy. So, backup outfits. For everyone. Trust me.
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You just grew a human. If you're not exactly feeling like your pre-baby self yet, that's 100% normal. Wear something you feel comfortable in. Soft, unfussy, ideally something that makes you feel like you again (even just a little). Flowy dresses work well, especially if you’re nursing. And if anyone’s offered to help out? Take them up on it. Having time to shower, breathe, and maybe even sit down for a second before I arrive? Game changer. This season is beautiful, blurry, and intense. We’ll document it without turning it into a production.
FOR THE NEW PARENT (AKA: YOU)
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Your home doesn’t need to look like it’s ready for a magazine shoot. I’m not here to judge your laundry pile or the explosion of burp cloths, that’s real life, and it belongs in the memory too. If you’ve got time (or a helpful friend), tidying up the spots with good natural light is all that’s needed. That might be the bed, the couch, or your favorite corner with the good window. We’ll keep it simple and shoot wherever the light is kind.
Preparing your home
backup Outfits
Babies are unpredictable. That’s kind of their thing. So no need to stress if someone spits up mid-session or needs a snack break halfway through, it’s all part of the process, and I plan for it. Feeding and changing your little one right before I arrive helps us hit the ground running. That said, we’ll probably pause for another feed or change at some point, and that’s completely normal.
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Preparing your Baby
(Soft light, tiny toes, and zero pressure) and the most bewildering time of your your life.
Newborns
a note about
Let’s talk about that golden glow everyone loves. I usually aim to shoot in the late afternoon or early evening, a couple hours before sunset, because the light is soft, warm, and flattering. That golden-hour look? It’s not just a filter. It’s real, and it’s worth chasing when we can.
That said, I’m not rigid. If evenings are tricky for your family, we can absolutely start earlier. Just know the light will look different. A bit brighter, maybe a little more contrasty, but still totally beautiful.
What matters most is that your family is relaxed and not hangry. So if sunset sessions land right in the middle of meltdown o’clock, we’ll make a plan that actually works for you.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
Sunset & Bedtimes
Yes, golden hour sometimes crashes bedtime, and yes, we can still make it work
During the summer, the best light usually hits around 19.00 or later, right when your kids are usually winding down. So if you’re going for that soft, glorious light, we may need to shift your usual routine a little.
If we’re shooting close to dinner, feed the kids (and yourselves) beforehand. A full belly goes a long way. Some families push nap times, pack pyjamas for a quick change after the shoot, or just embrace a slightly later night. You know your kids best, I’m here to work around what’s doable. If golden hour isn’t worth the bedtime chaos, no problem. We can aim for late afternoon instead. Less glowy light, but still lovely and way more peaceful if it means avoiding a hangry toddler stand-off.
Neutrals, earthy tones, soft textures, they tend to photograph beautifully and don’t fight for attention. That said, I’m not here to police your wardrobe. The goal is to feel like yourselves. Clean, comfortable, and not too matchy-matchy usually hits the mark.
Now, about the costumes...
I know it’s tempting, tiny pumpkin onesies, elf hats, that reindeer sweater from grandma. But if you're booking a session with me, you're probably not looking for novelty photos. These sessions are about your family, your connection, your real life together. Not a themed photoshoot for Instagram.
If your goal is to print and frame these images, or look back on them years from now and still love them, keep the styling simple. The more timeless (yes, I said it, and I mean literally timeless), the more the emotion and connection can come through.
So no costumes. Not even the “just for one photo” kind. Save those for the holiday card you take on your phone.
Seasonality
Outfit Real Talk:
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We chase the light, which means earlier start times (as early as 11.00). Dress warmly and in layers so you can peel off coats for a few quick shots without freezing. Tissues and backup makeup are also a good idea, winter noses do run.
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
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Technically spring starts in April, but in Sweden it usually still feels like late November. I typically start spring sessions in the middle of May when the light is better and the ground is less… squishy. We’ll always book a backup date too because, well, rain.
Fresh Flowers & Sunny Days
Spring
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Long evenings, golden light, barefoot kids in the garden, what’s not to love? We often start sessions around 19.00, and yes, it can be a bit sweaty. Bring wipes, water, and maybe a powder compact if shine bothers you. Summer is the most relaxed season to shoot in, and the photos tend to reflect that.
"If it could only be like this always"
Summer
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Peak color. Cozy layers. Everyone suddenly owns a cute knit beanie. Autumn books up fast, so if you’ve got your heart set on it, reach out early!
"and autumn a mosaic of them all."
Autumn
What to wear, Seasons & Timing
Yes to pets! If your dog (or cat or bunny or emotional support hedgehog) is part of the family, absolutely bring them. I love including pets, they bring out real emotion and genuine interaction. But let’s make a plan so they don’t hijack the whole session.
Walk them beforehand to burn off that edge. Bring treats and a favorite toy. And yes, if they’re long-haired or shed a lot, a quick groom beforehand can make a big difference in photos.
We’ll absolutely get a few sweet, natural shots with your furrball, nothing staged, nothing stiff. Just them being part of your everyday life. That’s what this session is all about.
Bringing
the furrball
on to the next
Think complement over matchy-matchy. You don’t all need to wear the same thing, in fact, please don’t. Coordinated colors that flow together tend to look the most natural. Pick a palette of 2–3 tones that live in the same “family”. Soft neutrals, pastels, warm earth tones, whatever suits your style and spread them out across everyone. Mixing subtle patterns and textures (like linen, denim, or a soft floral) can add interest without looking busy. Just skip the loud logos and neon brights. Keep the location in mind too. If we’re shooting in a lush garden or park, maybe skip the head-to-toe green so you don’t blend into the background. The goal is to stand out just enough without looking styled within an inch of your life. Still unsure? Send me your outfit ideas and I’ll help you choose. I’ve seen it all and I know what photographs well.
Without Overthinking It
What to wear
You want to feel comfortable and like yourself. If we’re shooting in the garden or chasing toddlers around, choose shoes you can actually move in. Love a heel? Bring a backup pair that won’t sink in the grass.
Larger patterns and soft textures (like linen or gauze) photograph beautifully. Tiny prints? Not so much, they can look busy on camera. Soft, muted colors tend to work best in natural light. Brights and neons can reflect weirdly onto skin (no one wants a hot pink glow-up). Wear what makes you feel good. If you’re comfortable and confident, it’ll come through in every frame.
For the Mamas
for anyone choosing the outfit that sets the tone
on to the next
Textures like lace, gauze, and soft tulle photograph beautifully, especially when there’s a little movement. Flowy dresses or fit-and-flare styles add shape without feeling fussy, and they work well whether you’re walking, twirling, or wrangling a toddler mid-photo. Statement jewelry can be a fun way to add personality or a pop of color to a simple look!
Above all: wear something you feel great in. Comfortable can look elevated. And yes, you can totally dress up, even if you’re barefoot in the garden five minutes later.
Accessories
the extras
on to the next
Arkivet
ASOS
Morning Lavender
Arket
Anthropologie
Free People
Pink Blush (Maternity)
Baltic Born Clothing
Favorite Shops
Able
Zara
Mango
Nothing Fits But
Skindeep
Reformation
for the ladies
on to the next
You absolutely don’t need professional hair and makeup to have a beautiful session but if it helps you feel more like yourself (or just a slightly more rested version), go for it. If you do hire someone, aim for a look that feels natural and like you. This isn’t a glam shoot, and you don’t need a full red carpet face. Fresh skin, soft hair, and nothing too trend-heavy tends to photograph best, especially in natural light.
Also worth noting: professional hair and makeup usually holds up better to wind, weather, and wrangling toddlers. So if you’re already feeling overwhelmed, outsourcing this part can actually be a bit of a gift to yourself. Spray tans and waxing? A few days before the session is your safest bet, just in case your skin needs time to chill.
Hair & Makeup
Optional, but worth thinking about
on to the next
Keep it simple, comfortable, and true to your style. A casual button-up or soft knit in a neutral tone works great. Layers like a sweater or light jacket can add texture without feeling too “done.” Jeans are totally fine, as long as they’re not fresh-from-the-laundry stiff. Skip anything with tiny patterns, super bold prints, or flashy colors, they can look distracting in photos or reflect weirdly on skin. Softer tones tend to photograph best and won’t compete with all the natural tones around you (or the chaos of small children). And no, you don’t need to wear a bowtie. Unless you really want to, in which case, go all in and own it.
For the Dads
(for anyone who hates being told what to wear)
on to the next
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Lund & Lund
Åhlens
ASOS
Suit Supply
Grandpa
Zara
H&M
Urban Outfitters
MQ
Banana Republic
Mango
Hugo
6/5/4
Rose & Born
our Legacy
Lively
Lucca
Kate Quinn
Zara Kids
NK Kids
Rylee & Cru
H&M Kids
Favorite Shops
Bonti
Mini Rodini
Sprall
Gap
Kids Brand Store
Hanna Andersson
for the kids
on to the next
I don’t shoot in bad weather. Full stop. That’s why we always schedule two dates, one primary, one backup. From the start. Weather is unpredictable, especially in Sweden, and I’m not going to ask you to get everyone ready, out the door, and into the rain just for the sake of sticking to the original plan. That’s not how I work.
We’ll check in the week of your session to confirm the time, location, and forecast. If it’s looking iffy, I’ll make the call, usually the morning of the main date.
Having two dates locked in means no scrambling and no disappointment. Just photos that look and feel the way they should.
Inclement Weather
What happens if the sky opens up
Here’s the truth. I’m not expecting you to know what to do with your hands. Or your face. Or your kids, for that matter. That’s my job.
I’ll guide you just enough to make sure you’re in good light and connected to each other and then I let real moments unfold. But here’s the thing, I can’t fake your connection for you. You’ve got to meet me halfway. Be present. Be open. Let go of needing your kids to “behave.” Don’t stress about looking perfect. This works best when we treat it like what it actually is: time together, not a performance. If you’re in it, the photos will reflect that, and they’ll matter so much more because of it.
Spoiler: You’re not actually supposed to “pose”
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
If you’ve booked a session with multiple households (think grandparents, siblings, cousins, the whole gang), a little planning goes a long way.
Extended Family Sessions
Tips for keeping things smooth with the whole crew
To keep things running smoothly, just send over a simple list of who’s who and who should be photographed together. Nothing fancy, just enough so I’m not guessing mid-shoot or accidentally skipping an important combo. No need for a full family tree (unless you’re into that), but something like this works great:
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Grandma - Anna
Grandfather - Sven
Sam (son of Anna + Sven) and Kristina.
Their Kids: Willhelm (10), Kristina (5) and Karl (2)
Elizabeth (daugther of Anna + Sven) and Daniel
Their Kids: Svea (9) and Bill (6)
For extended families, it's worth coordinating outfits ahead of time so everyone looks like they belong in the same photo, without looking like they were styled by a group text panic the night before.
Skip the matching outfits (looking at you, white polos and khakis). Instead, choose a shared color palette, a few tones that work well together and let each person build their outfit from there. It keeps things cohesive without feeling forced. Think: relaxed “Sunday best.” Something that feels a little special but still lets you move, sit, or chase after small humans without adjusting every five seconds.
If you're unsure or stuck, send me a few outfit ideas. I'm always happy to weigh in.
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Home is best, especially when there’s a lot of you! For extended families, space matters. We need room to move, safe spots for kids, and light that works. The easiest option? Use the home with the biggest yard.
It’s familiar, easy to access, and we’re not dragging grandparents through a crowded park. Plus, shade, space, bathrooms. Win-win. If that’s not an option, we can find something low-key and nearby. But honestly? Home usually wins.
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Who gets access? You tell me.
After the session, you’ll receive a gallery with the edited images. If other family members need access too, just send me their email addresses ahead of time. I’ll make sure everyone who should see the photos, can.
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Yep, just choose a good-quality lab and turn off automatic color correction. Drugstore printing won’t do your images justice.
This is also why I offer print options through your gallery, they’re calibrated to look exactly the way I edited them.
A:
Can I print the images on my own?
q:
It varies, but most families get 40–60 edited images. I don’t count clicks. I shoot until we’ve got the full story, connection, calm moments, and the chaos in between.
A:
How many images will I receive?
q:
At least 6 months. Sometimes longer, but once it’s delivered, please download everything and back it up. Bonus points if you use an external hard drive that’s not from 2009.
A:
How long will I have access to the images?
q:
Turnaround time is usually 4–6 weeks, depending on the season. I edit everything myself (no outsourcing), and I don’t rush the process but I also know you’re excited to see them.
A:
When will I receive my images?
q:
F.A.Q
aka: Everything you were about to DM me
Absolutely. Just please don’t add filters or edits, if you’re not sure, just ask. Tags and credits are always appreciated, but not required.
A:
Can I share the images on social media?
q:
You’ll get a full personal-use license to print, share, and post. What you can’t do: sell them as stock or use them commercially. I won’t do that either without your written permission.
A:
Do I own the rights to the images?
q:
Plan for about 60–90 minutes. We probably won’t be shooting nonstop that whole time, but it gives us space for breaks, snack runs, and letting everyone settle into it.
A:
How long should we plan for the session to take?
q:
Image editing is always included. Bigger retouches, like removing background clutter, fixing tan lines, or swapping heads, aren’t included but can be added for an extra fee if needed.
A:
Will you retouch our images?
q:
If you’ve made it this far, you know what I’m going to say: at home or in your garden. It’s where you’re most comfortable, it’s where your life actually happens, and it’s where the best photos are made. If you’re booking an extended family session, use the house with the biggest yard. Trust me.
A:
Where should we do the session?
q:
I send everything to my lab right after your session. Turnaround is usually 4–6 weeks unless there’s a holiday or lab delay. If things run a bit behind, it might take an extra week or two. In a rush? Let me know. I’ll do my best to speed things up, but no promises.
Your Images
When to Expect
(Because tech won’t last, but paper does)
Photos aren’t meant to live on hard drives or get buried in your camera roll. One day, your phone will be replaced, your cloud storage will glitch, and Instagram will be… who knows?
But printed photos? They stick around.
Think about it. Your family probably still has prints from your grandparents. Maybe even great-grandparents. And that was long before easy access to cameras or digital files. Printed images have staying power. They’re what get pulled out years later, passed around, framed, remembered. So yes, you’ll get a digital gallery. But if you want something that truly lasts, print your photos. Hold them. Frame them. Make them real.
Why prints
matter
Perfect for those who value legacy. These heirloom albums are a great way to house a large number of images in a beautiful way. Leave them on display as coffee table books or protect them with a legacy box.
Albums
Our framed and matted prints are the perfect way to fill your walls with memories. With a variety of frames to choose from, we’ll help you select the perfect image pairings for your space.
Prints & Wall Art
Details for ordering will be delivered with your gallery
Easy to hang and easy to change out. Canvases are one of our favorite ways to decorate a space. They also work great on little easels placed around the home.
Canvases
Let’s keep it real (and fun)
These sessions aren’t about posing perfectly or matching outfits or staging a version of your family that doesn’t actually exist. They’re about documenting what your life feels like right now. The little hand-holds, the in-between moments, the beautiful mess of it all.
Most families choose to shoot at home or in their garden, and that’s where the magic often happens. You’re already comfortable there. The kids know the space. You can pause for a snack or run barefoot through the grass. It’s familiar, which means it’s easier to relax and actually enjoy the process.
But if you’d rather head to a park or another outdoor spot, we can definitely do that, just plan something to do while we’re there. A snack picnic, bubbles, a ball to kick around. Anything that keeps the kids engaged and moving. Wandering around waiting for inspiration to strike usually isn’t fun for anyone (including them).
You don’t need to “perform” or worry about how it’s all going to go. I’ll guide things just enough to keep the session moving while letting space for real connection. The result? Images that feel like you, not a photoshoot version of you.
Can’t wait to hang out.
fotografer@2brides.se