What’s the Best Age to Book a Family Photoshoot? | Dublin Family Photographer

As a family photographer in Dublin, one of the questions I’m often asked is whether there’s a “best” age to book a family photoshoot.

The short answer? There really isn’t.

Every age brings something different. Babies change almost weekly, toddlers are full of personality and chaos, and as children get older you start to capture their relationships, little quirks and the people they’re becoming.

The best time for family photos is usually just now. That is why I offer mini shoots twice a year for families to update photos regularly

Family Photos With Babies

You definitely don’t have to book a newborn photoshoot to get gorgeous photographs of your baby.

At 4, 6, 9 or 12 months, babies are starting to show so much personality. You get smiles, chubby little hands, sitting up, crawling and all those expressions you see every day at home.

It’s such a lovely stage for a family photoshoot — and one that disappears ridiculously quickly.

What About Toddlers?

Toddlers are probably the age parents worry about most before a family photoshoot.

Please don’t!

I have absolutely no expectation that your two-year-old is going to sit nicely, look directly at my camera and smile on command.

My family sessions are relaxed and very much led by the kids. We walk, play, explore, have cuddles, run around and give them time to settle into it.

If they need a break, we take one. If they want to run, we run.

And very often, the photographs parents end up loving most are the ones where nobody is looking at the camera at all.

Are Older Kids Too Old for Family Photos?

Definitely not.

I actually love photographing families with school-age and older children.

Their personalities and relationships really start to come through, and we can have a bit of craic while getting a lovely mixture of natural photographs, sibling photos and, yes, a few of everyone looking at the camera too!

If you’ve suddenly realised that the last proper photograph you have of your whole family was when your youngest was a baby, you’re definitely not the only one.

So, When Should You Book a Family Photoshoot?

Don’t wait for the perfect age.

There will always be something, someone has lost a tooth, a toddler won’t sit still, your teenager isn’t enthusiastic about family photos, or you’re waiting until you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

But your kids are never going to be exactly this age again.

My family photoshoots in Dublin and Meath are relaxed, natural and child-led, with very little posing. You don’t need perfectly behaved children, matching outfits or a family who loves being in front of the camera.

Just come as you are.