Sunset Session: 5 Tips to Keep Kids Awake

Is your family planning a sunset session? I bet the one thing you’re curious about is: what about the kid’s bedtime?

I always schedule family photos close to when the sun is rising or setting because that is when the light is the best. If you take a look at the photos on this website or blog, you’ll see exactly what I mean. Having outdoor photos during those times allows your photos to be filled with a soft, warm light that honestly can’t be accomplished during any other time of the day. For families with small children, I recommend a sunset session. I’ve learned it’s much easier for a family to make it on time later in the day than first thing. So, let’s talk about how you can keep your kids awake for a sunset session.

If you’re new here, hi! I’m Tiara — a Raleigh, North Carolina family + senior photographer. I help families feel fully comfortable and naturally engaged on camera, all while creating lasting memories. You’ll certainly feel that during your session with me! I believe that photography is something everyone can enjoy + participate in, and this blog post is to help you remove the stress so many families face when planning their family photo session! 

Tiara Hargrove Photography

I recommend moving your child’s nap time later than usual (about 60 minutes) leading up to the family session to help them stay up longer. A lot of parents assume skipping nap time all together is the best way to go, but I’ve only seen this backfire. Naps are important in helping younger children stay calmer and less irritable during the day, along with other benefits. To help your child enjoy the session, too, plan to push their nap to later. I have to mention this too — if your child is a “grumpy waker,” be sure to avoid letting them nap in the car before your session. 

Avoid cramming too much into your day before your family photos (it’d be great if you avoided this the day before too). Try to keep the family’s day lowkey on the day you’re scheduled for photos, so the kids aren’t overtired. For instance, I wouldn’t recommend scheduling a photo session the same day the kids have sports practice, a birthday party, etc. I know it can be hard juggling schedules for your entire family, but you will thank yourself later if you schedule your photos on a day when that’s *literally* all you have to do! 

Have your child’s favorite snacks handy to give them an extra energy boost! Full bellies rarely complain (both children + adults) and who can be upset after having their favorite treat? If you choose to bring snacks, keep in mind to bring along something that won’t make a mess (i.e., ice pops, pudding, etc.)

I recommend this for all families, not just families with children! But, make the experience a fun one for your family. I’ve seen family members have a more upbeat attitude to family photos when it’s talked about regularly. Include your kids in conversations about the session, like where photos are taken and what they get to wear (i.e,, “Would you like to wear this shirt or this shirt for pictures?”, etc.). It’s also great if you mention your photographer regularly if you have a child who is shy. But the biggest takeaway here is to make it a fun experience for your family before + during! 

Although I’m sure you’ll be mindful to prioritize certain suggestions before your session, it’s important to remember that kids will be kids. Make sure that, while you’re preparing the best way you know how for your session, you are also setting realistic expectations for your kids. Each child is different, so keep in mind what may work for one child may not work for yours. Remember to be patient with yourself and your kids when having family photos taken. 

I hope this post was helpful in answering some of your questions about sunset family photos. If you’re still curious or have additional questions, please feel free to comment below and I’ll personally reply. Now that you know it’s possible for your family to do a sunset photo session, it’s time to book! You can submit an inquiry for a family session here. I can’t wait to work with your family and create lasting memories! To check what time sunrise or sunset is any day in Raleigh, NC use this calendar.

Tiara Hargrove Photography

September 23, 2024

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