Family Pictures


Family pictures are all about capturing the real you! Your family dynamics and the love, laughter, and bond that makes your family unique. One of my favorite parts of family photography is catching a snapshot of that family bond to remember forever and I've developed a pretty reliable system for bringing out the natural connections, genuine smiles, and affectionate moments that make each family so special.


But family pictures can be nerve wracking! I totally get it! Maybe you've fallen in love with the final photos you've seen in my portfolio, but when it comes to the actual process of getting those photos...you don't know what to expect. What if it's awkward? What if no one smiles? What if all of the kids decide to have meltdowns at the exact same time and I just stand there with my camera waiting while the session time slips away?


DON'T STRESS. None of that will happen. Well, maybe the melt downs- but rest assured that if that DOES end up happening, I will be right there with you in the trenches helping to get things back on track. And I have a whole arsenal of tricks up my sleeve honed from 14 years of parenting 4 kids, not to mention bubbles, squeaky toys, and if all else fails...fart jokes (pending parental approval. *wink*)


The point is, I want you to rest easy knowing that I won't just be standing there with a camera. My whole goal is to make this a wonderful experience for all of you, that's the only way to capture those genuine, happy pictures that we're all hoping for. So, to ease your mind this blog is all about how to mentally prepare for a family pictures session, and what exactly you can expect from a session with me.

Child wearing layered dress swings between parents' hands in a golden sunset field with wooden fence in background.

See the silver lining


I know, I know...no pressure. But I really do mean it! If the adults show up in a good mood, that's half the battle won right there! One thing that I always like to tell parents is: for the duration of our photoshoot look at everything in the best possible light.


Is somebody crying? It's not frustrating, it's ADORABLE. Relax, smile at them, bend down to their level and connect with them, offer some loving, calming words. Don't let it get to you, don't worry about the clock, let this be a moment of connection while I capture that parent-child bond.


Did somebody do something mildly amusing? It was actually HILARIOUS. Look at them and just laugh, hype them up like they are the funniest little jokester in all the realm. Set a playful tone and watch as your children follow your lead.


Is someone feeling shy? No need to try to tug them out of their shell. Hold their hands, look them in the eyes, encourage them gently, sometimes the most captivating photos come from the softest smiles and quiet interactions. Embrace the authenticity of the moment and you will fall in love with the results.


Hug it out


I'm all about PDA (photogenic displays of affection) here!


In fact, I tell parents to be more affectionate than they've ever been in their life! Always be touching someone, hugging someone, giving someone a kiss on the head/cheek/forehead, lifting someone up in the air, etc etc.


It might not feel natural! I mean, who really feels natural in front of the camera? But I promise you that it looks natural, and beautiful, and loving on camera. In real life you do all of these things everyday, just...maybe over the course of many hours. When we have one hour together it takes a bit more of a concerted effort to get a gallery full of loving, playful connections. But if you dedicate yourself to PDA, you will LOVE the way the pictures turn out.


Embrace Imperfection


If something doesn't seem to be going to plan, try not to stress about it! Instead, look at it as an opportunity for funny, unique, and memorable pictures. Sometimes the quirkiest and most spontaneous moments make for the best pictures! If you can embrace that spontaneity and be okay with going with the flow, I'll be there to capture the real, unscripted beauty of your family.


The end result of all of this will be a gallery of pictures full of personality, fun, love, and your unique family bond.


Hopefully I've dispelled some of your worries, but if you still have questions I would love to chat! Send me a message anytime


A tender moment shared between two people in floral dresses sitting on grass at sunset with a wooden fence in background.
A young girl in a ruffled dress and denim jacket runs playfully along a wooden fence at sunset.
A family shares a tender moment together by a rustic wooden fence during golden hour in an autumn field.
A tender candid moment between parent and child playing outdoors with joyful expressions in golden sunlight.


Mercedes Jones is a State College photographer proudly serving clients throughout State College, PA, and surrounding Central Pennsylvania areas, including Bellefonte, Port Matilda, Pleasant Gap, Boalsburg, Julian, and Centre Hall. Specializing in family, newborn, graduation, senior, portrait, and wedding photography, Mercedes is passionate about capturing authentic, memorable moments. For senior sessions, Mercedes regularly serves students from State College Area School District (SCASD), Bald Eagle, Bellefonte, Keystone, Penns Valley, and Tyrone school districts—and loves to travel! Whether you're looking for lifestyle family photography, timeless newborn portraits, or vibrant senior photos, Mercedes Jones Photography is ready to document your life's most important milestones.