When families start planning a session, one of the first questions I get is: What should we do?
To which I usually respond: What do you like to do?
Planning your family photo session around simple, familiar activities is one of the easiest ways to create images that feel authentic and relaxed. Think of this as your chance to document your beautiful, normal life:
The pitter patter of bare feet down the hallway.
A favorite trail where you walk the dog on weekends.
The dinosaur stuffie that somehow never leaves your little’s hands.
Here are five simple, meaningful activity ideas for your next Vermont family photo session.
Exploring Outside (Backyard, Trail, or Walking the Dog)
This is one of my favorite options for Vermont families!
Whether you’re in your backyard, wandering a nearby trail, or walking the dog through your neighborhood, these are the places your family already feels at home.
Imagine…
Picking dandelions or wildflowers.
Your little one proudly holding the dog’s leash.
Running barefoot through the grass in your own backyard.
When kids are free to explore at their own pace, genuine smiles and laughter easily follows.
Baking Together
If your home usually has muffins or cookies on the counter, this might be your sweet spot. (Yes, I made a dad joke.)
Think…
Little hands pouring (and don’t we know it… spilling) ingredients while you work side by side.
Sneaking sprinkles straight from the jar.
Licking the spatula like it’s the best part. (Because it is.)
Whether it’s a passed-down family recipe or a boxed cake mix, baking together creates space for some messy, real life connection.
Playing a Game (and Getting a Little Wild)
This is especially perfect for littles with lots of wiggles—let’s lean into it!
You could…
Kick a ball around the yard, play tag, or have a tickle fight.
Play on the swingset together.
Turn on their favorite song and have an all-out dance party in the living room.
No posing. No pressure. Just movement, laughter, and fun together.
Bath Time
There’s something incredibly tender about bath time with little ones.
Picture…
Blowing bubbles and giggling together.
Tiny toes splashing in the water.
Fresh jammies and a snuggle with a favorite book.
It’s a normal part of your day, but photographing it reminds you how special these everyday rituals are.
Choose Your Own Adventure: What Feels Like Your Family?
Think about what your family naturally does together:
Digging in the sandbox.
Lining up trucks or dinosaurs.
Working through puzzles together.
Reading Little Blue Truck for the hundredth time.
It doesn’t have to be unique—it just has to feel like you.
Because those everyday, seemingly small moments? Those are likely the ones you’ll treasure most. It’s a cliché for a reason: the little things are the big things. And capturing these moments is exactly where my lifestyle family photography shines.
You don’t need to plan something elaborate or perfectly styled. The beauty is already there in your routines, your rhythms, your connection.
A Quick Note on Styling
Some families worry these kinds of sessions won’t feel as “polished” or pretty.
Maybe they’re right in the traditional sense. But they are real. And your real life is beautiful.
(And honestly? Even the most colorful plastic truck your little insists on holding looks timeless in black and white!)
Scheduling a Family Photo Shoot that Celebrates Your Real Life
These ideas hopefully inspire you to schedule your own relaxed, activity-based session. I believe these “real life” sessions allow your family to settle in, be yourselves, and actually enjoy the experience while creating images that feel honest and true.
I’d love to help you plan your own Vermont family session that celebrates the beauty of your real life!
Go ahead and click here learn more.
