Let’s be honest—when it comes to family photos, it’s usually Mom leading the charge. She’s the one picking out outfits, coordinating schedules, and crossing fingers that everyone smiles at the same time (don’t worry about that one because I can do face-swaps.) Meanwhile, Dad… well, he’s wondering how many more photos he has to smile through before it’s time for that promised ice cream. Because if he’s paying, he’s getting the waffle cone!


If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The good news: getting Dad involved in family photos doesn’t have to be a battle.  In fact, with just a few tweaks, your next session could be something everyone actually looks forward to. Yes, even Dad. And I’ve got the receipts to prove it! 


Here are five lighthearted (but totally effective) ways to help Dad enjoy your next family photo session:

A family stands together in a sunlit meadow at sunset, surrounded by rolling hills for family photos by Chattanooga photographer.

1. Let Him Off the Hook for Posing


Most dads don’t love the idea of stiff, awkward posing—and good news: neither do I. The best family photos with Dad happen when he’s just being himself. Tossing a kid in the air (entirely too high.) Wrapping up the crew in a big bear hug. Making someone laugh with a ridiculous dad joke. No fake smiles required. Just connection, movement, and a little play.


Natural moments always win.

Family playing together and hugging in a grassy field during golden hour sunset.

2. Involve Him in the Planning (Just a Little)


While he probably doesn’t want to deep-dive into color palettes, letting Dad weigh in on the family photo session, even in a small way, can help him feel more invested. Ask which location sounds more fun, or ask if there’s anything he’d rather not wear. 


Either way, he’s involved just enough to not feel like an extra in a photoshoot he didn’t sign up for.



For more tips on what NOT to wear for family photo sessions - read this!

3. Remind Him Why Family Photos Are Important


He’s not doing it just to please you. Yes, you’re the one booking the session. But if the session was just for you, you could always just book a mommy and me session and leave him out! But family photos with Dad are for more than the holiday card or Instagram grid. These photos will also be keepsakes for your kids. One day, your kids will look at these photos and see how much they were loved, especially by their dad.



They won’t remember what he wore. They’ll remember how he looked at them. How safe they felt in his arms. How he showed up.

A joyful moment captured outdoors in golden light as a dad holds and plays with his 2 young sons wearing overalls.
A boy in overalls explores a grassy meadow at sunset while a family watches from behind in a pastoral setting.
Family of five enjoying a sunset moment together in a grassy field during golden hour.

4. Make It a Memory, Not a Chore


Family photos don’t have to be an ordeal. Bring snacks. Let the kids be silly. Laugh when someone makes a goofy face. And promise something fun afterward that both Dad and the kids will like—like a stop for donuts or a family friendly brewery–like this one in Chattanooga.


The goal? Make family photography with Dad feel like a relaxed family outing, not a test of everyone’s patience.


Spice it up: Remind him that he’s likely to be called on for some kissing photos. That’s certain to make him look forward to the session!

A loving family shares tender moments together in a sunlit meadow during golden hour.

5. Let a Pro Handle It


One of the biggest reasons dads dread photos? They think it’s going to be a high-pressure, overly posed experience. But when you hire a photographer who knows how to keep things relaxed and natural (hey there 👋), it takes the pressure off everyone.


He doesn’t have to stress about what to say, where to stand, or how to make the kids cooperate. I gently guide things as we go—no forced awkward smiles—so the focus stays on connection, not perfection.

Family enjoying a picnic together on a blanket in a lush green field on a sunny day for family photos.

And Just Like That… Dad Survived Family Photos


Family photos with Dad can be fun, natural, and full of meaning without being stressful. With a little planning, a lot of laughter, and the right photographer (in case that hasn’t been clear, that’s me), even the most camera-shy dads usually walk away saying: “That wasn’t so bad.” Or, "This is probably the easiest photo session we've ever had." Or my personal favorite, "I don't usually like getting pictures, but this was actually fun!"


And when he sees the final gallery? He’ll be glad he said yes.

A husband and wife peacefully resting together on the ground in tall grass during golden hour sunset in a rural field.

BONUS TIP


Want to make your next photo session even more fun for Dad? Get a babysitter for the kids after your session and make a date night out of it! You’re already dressed up and looking good so go out and enjoy the rest of the evening just the two of you. And maybe save dessert for later? IYKYN  *wink*

Looking for date night ideas in Chattanooga?

Check out this blog!

7 fun date night ideas in Chattanooga

What kind of dad is your husband when it’s photo time?


Is he the “Do I really have to wear this?” type? The secret softie who turns to mush once the kids start giggling? Or maybe he’s the MVP who brings the energy and never-ending repertoire of dad jokes?


I’d love to hear what kind of dad you’re bringing to your session—drop me a note!

Check out more photos from this fun family photo session with Dad!

A mother enjoys a moment with her young boys in a lush green grassy field at sunset.
A mother embraces 2 sons affectionately in a lush green meadow during a warm summer day.
Family gathering in a field at golden hour for family photos among tall grass and rolling hills in the background.
Young child in blue denim overalls stands in a grassy field next to his mother as the sun sets behind them.
Family shares playful moments together in a green grassy meadow during golden hour.
A mom and dad enjoy a tender moment with their 3 sons in a sunlit meadow during golden hour as the sun sets over rolling hills.
Artistic photo showing a young boy in overalls with blue cornflowers tucked into pockets against his mother's burgundy dress.
A dad stands in a grassy meadow at sunset holding all three children at once in a playful pose.
A young child in denim overalls holds onto his mother's arm while holding a purple wildflower.
Mom, Dad, and 3 boys embrace in a green meadow at sunset against rolling hills in warm lighting for family photo session.
Family enjoying a sunset moment in a grassy field with warm golden light filtering through trees in the background.
Family of five shares an intimate moment in a grassy field at sunset against a natural landscape.
A playful moment captured at sunset in a grassy field as dad tries to hold 2 young boys at the same time.
A tender moment between a mother and child outdoors during golden hour in nature.
Candid family moments captured in a grassy field at sunset with warm golden light. Dad plays with older boys while mom dances with baby.
Loving family portrait captured outdoors showing mom in glasses snuggling close with two young children.
A loving family cuddles together on a blanket in a green field during golden hour.
Sweet, intimate family moments of dad hugging son captured on the grass during a golden hour photoshoot.
A dad wearing glasses and a brown t-shirt holds a small child in beige clothing on a grassy hillside at sunset.
A dad gives a playful piggyback ride to his 3 sons in a grassy field at sunset with trees silhouetted in the background.
Woman in black hat and floral dress smiles brightly in garden setting during golden hour.

Hi, I'm Christian!


(Michelle is my middle name) and I am a Chattanooga photographer who will make getting beautiful photos of your family fun and easy! My style is vibrant and natural with a focus on fun so no one gets bored! You'll love your photos so much that you'll want to share them with everyone you know!


Let's connect - I'd love to tell your story!

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