One of the questions families often ask before booking a professional photoshoot is how long the session is going to take. This is completely understandable, especially if you have young children, babies or several family members taking part.
The honest answer is that there isn’t one set length for every family photoshoot. Some sessions might take around 30 minutes, while others can last one or two hours. It really depends on what you want from your photographs, how many people are involved and the type of package you choose.
As a family photographer working in Exmouth, Exeter and across Devon, I always want to make sure there is enough time to capture the photographs properly. I don’t believe in rushing families through a session just to stick to the clock. Getting natural expressions, comfortable poses and photographs that everyone is happy with is much more important.
How Long Does a Typical Family Photoshoot Take?
A typical family portrait session can take anywhere from half an hour to one or two hours. The length usually depends on the package you have booked and how many photographs you would like to have taken.
For example, a shorter session might be suitable if you are looking for a selection of natural family portraits without too many changes or additional arrangements. However, if you want a larger collection of photographs, several different poses or a variety of backgrounds, you will generally need more time.
There are several things that can affect the length of your session:
- The number of photographs you would like.
- The photography package you have chosen.
- Whether you want to change outfits during the session.
- Whether you want to include props or personal belongings.
- The number of family members taking part.
- Whether you prefer natural, relaxed photographs or a variety of planned poses.
For example, some families simply want a few lovely photographs together, while others want a much larger collection showing different combinations of family members, individual portraits and natural moments.
The more variety you want, the more time we may need. I would always rather allow enough time to get the photographs right than rush through everything.
Do Photoshoots Take Longer When Young Children or Babies Are Involved?
Absolutely. When photographing families with young children or babies, you need to be prepared for things not always going to plan.
Children don’t necessarily follow a schedule, and expecting them to behave perfectly throughout an entire photoshoot isn’t realistic. Sometimes they might feel a little uncomfortable, become upset or simply not want to have their photograph taken straight away.
This is completely normal, and it is nothing for parents to worry about.
I always allow flexibility when photographing younger children. Sometimes we might need to take a break for 10–20 minutes, allowing a child to calm down, settle themselves and become comfortable before continuing.
There is no point trying to force photographs when a child isn’t ready. It is much better to give them a little time and take photographs when they are feeling happier and more relaxed.
As a family photographer in Exmouth and Devon, I believe patience is one of the most important parts of working with children. You don’t need every child to be perfectly behaved or smiling throughout the session. We can work around their personalities and give them the time they need.
Why Breaks Are Important During Family Photography
Breaks can make a big difference to how a family photoshoot goes, particularly when babies and younger children are involved.
They give children an opportunity to relax, have some attention from their parents and become comfortable with their surroundings. They also give parents a chance to take a breath rather than feeling under pressure to keep everything moving.
Sometimes a few minutes away from the camera is all that is needed before we can continue.
The aim is to create photographs that show your family naturally, not to make everyone feel as though they are following a strict timetable.
Do Larger Families Need More Time for a Photoshoot?
Generally, yes. Larger family groups usually take longer to photograph because there are more people to organise and position.
With a smaller family, it can be relatively straightforward to arrange everyone for a photograph. However, when you have grandparents, parents, several children and other relatives involved, there are more things to consider.
For example, I need to think about:
- Where everyone should stand or sit.
- How to arrange different family members together.
- Making sure everyone is positioned comfortably.
- Getting children settled and ready for photographs.
- Taking different combinations of family members.
- Making sure everyone has a good expression and is looking towards the camera when needed.
It can take a little longer to get everyone into position, particularly when younger children are involved.
You might also want photographs of the whole family together, followed by smaller groups, such as grandparents with grandchildren, parents with children or individual family portraits.
These different combinations are a lovely way to make the most of a family photoshoot, but they naturally require more time.
Whether you are booking a family photographer in Exeter, Exmouth, Sidmouth or elsewhere in Devon, it is worth mentioning the number of people attending when arranging your session. This helps me understand what you would like and plan the time accordingly.
Find out more
Does Your Photography Package Affect the Session Length?
Yes. Photography packages are generally planned around a particular session length and the number of photographs included.
When you choose a package, the time allocated is usually calculated to give you enough opportunity to capture the photographs included. Most of the time, the planned duration works very well.
However, every family is different, so there can be occasions when we need a little more or less time.
For example, a larger family might need additional time to arrange everyone, while a smaller family wanting a simple selection of natural photographs might not need the full session duration.
It is also worth remembering that you might decide you want more photographs than you originally planned. Perhaps you would like to try another outfit, include additional family combinations or capture a few more natural moments.
That is absolutely fine. We can discuss your requirements beforehand and look at whether a longer session would be more suitable.
Discussing Your Requirements Before the Photoshoot
Before your session, I encourage families to speak to me about anything they are unsure of.
If you have a larger family, young children, specific ideas for photographs or several outfits you would like to use, let me know beforehand.
It helps me understand what you are hoping to achieve and make sure the package and session length are suitable.
I don’t want anyone arriving at their family photoshoot feeling worried that there won’t be enough time. A little planning beforehand can make the whole experience much more relaxed.
What If the Photoshoot Takes Longer Than Expected?
Not every photoshoot goes exactly to plan, and that is perfectly normal.
Sometimes children need a little longer to settle down. Other times, we might find a particular pose, background or combination of family members that works especially well and decide to spend a little more time capturing it.
Equally, some sessions finish earlier than expected.
The important thing is that the photographs are given the attention they deserve. I want to make sure we have enough good photographs before moving on, rather than rushing simply because we have reached a particular point in the session.
If you have concerns about timing, it is always best to discuss them with me beforehand. We can work out what is most appropriate for your family and the photographs you would like.
My Advice to Parents Worried About Their Children’s Behaviour
One thing I would really like parents to remember is not to worry too much about how their children might behave during a photoshoot.
I understand that some parents worry their children won’t cooperate, sit still or smile when asked. They might even feel embarrassed if their child becomes upset or doesn’t want to participate straight away.
But honestly, don’t worry about it.
Children don’t have to be perfect throughout the entire session. They can have their moments, and sometimes they simply need a little time to settle down.
If a child becomes unhappy, we can pause, give them some time and continue when they are ready. There is no need to put pressure on them or expect everything to happen immediately.
In my experience, patience makes a huge difference. Once children become comfortable and realise there is no pressure, they can often become much more relaxed in front of the camera.
My job is to work with your family, understand what everyone needs and help make the experience as enjoyable as possible.
Booking a Family Photoshoot in Exeter, Exmouth and Devon
If you are considering booking a professional family photoshoot, it is worth thinking about the types of photographs you would like before choosing your package.
You might want a simple collection of family portraits, or perhaps a longer session with different outfits, individual photographs and several family combinations.
I offer family photography for families in Exmouth, Exeter and surrounding Devon locations, including Sidmouth, Topsham, Teignmouth, Dawlish and Honiton.
Whether you are looking for a family photographer in Exeter, a family photographer in Devon or a family photoshoot in Exmouth, the most important thing is choosing a session that gives you enough time to enjoy the experience and capture the photographs you want.
You don’t need to worry about everything going perfectly. Children might need breaks, larger groups might take longer to arrange, and sometimes we might need to adjust our plans.
That is all part of family photography.
Ultimately, I want you to enjoy your session, feel comfortable and come away with photographs that you will appreciate for many years to come.
Find out more
Examples of Family Photography
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Photoshoot Session Times
1. How long does a family photoshoot usually take?
A family photoshoot can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one or two hours. The length depends on the photography package, number of people, outfits, props and how many photographs you would like.
2. How long should I allow for a family photoshoot with young children?
It is sensible to allow enough flexibility for breaks and time to settle. Young children may need an extra 10–20 minutes or longer if they become upset or uncomfortable. Your photographer can work around their needs.
3. Do family photoshoots take longer with babies?
They can do. Babies may need feeding, changing, comforting or time to settle during a session. Allowing flexibility makes the experience more comfortable for everyone.
4. Does a larger family need a longer photography session?
Generally, yes. Larger families often need more time to arrange everyone, organise different group combinations and capture photographs of the whole family together.
5. Can I change outfits during my family photoshoot?
Yes, depending on your chosen package and the time available. If you would like several outfits, it is best to mention this when booking so the session can be planned accordingly.
6. Can we bring props to a family photoshoot?
Yes. Props can add a personal touch to your photographs, particularly if they have special meaning to your family. Let your photographer know beforehand so enough time can be allowed.
7. What happens if my child doesn’t behave during the photoshoot?
There is no need to worry. Children can become tired, upset or distracted, and this is completely normal. A patient photographer will allow time for breaks and continue when your child is ready.
8. Can I book a longer family photoshoot in Exeter or Devon?
Yes, longer sessions may be possible depending on your requirements. If you have a large family or want several outfits and a bigger selection of photographs, discuss this with your family photographer before booking.
9. How long does a family photoshoot take in Exmouth, Sidmouth or Topsham?
The location itself doesn’t necessarily determine the session length. Most sessions will depend on your package, family size and the photographs you want. Whether you book a family photographer in Exmouth, Sidmouth or Topsham, your photographer can help plan the time needed.
10. How do I know which family photography package is right for me?
Think about how many photographs you would like, whether you want different outfits, how many people are attending and whether you want individual and group portraits. A professional family photographer can discuss your requirements and help you choose a suitable package.
