HOW NOT TO HAVE A MENTAL BREAKDOWN DURING YOUR FAMILY PHOTO SESSION

Family pictures are great! They help you create and remember fond memories of your loving family. However, this day can get VERY stressful, and we want to ensure this doesn't happen. If you're stressed it will show, and we want your photos to be carefree. Here are some tips you can use on picture day to help you relax:

1. Take some deep breaths

Deep breathing is a common relaxing method. It can quickly calm your stress level and you can do it anywhere. Breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth, counting slowly in your head while letting it all out.

2. Laugh

Laughter is a great way to release tension. It will also help your family relax to get some genuine smiles. Have everyone pretend to laugh and they will feel so ridiculous, that they will actually laugh. This will ease everyone into relaxation mode.

3. Count down slowly (in your head) from 10

Take a deep breath between each number. If you're still feeling super stressed, start the process over, back at 10.

4. Distract yourself

If your family isn't cooperating and you are getting stressed, suggest that we play a game or take a walk. This will let some of the energy out and also give us some good interacting photos. Prior to your session, think of a short game that your family would enjoy - it could be something like duck, duck, goose, or dancing to head, shoulders, knees and toes, etc.

You can also distract yourself by going to your 'happy place'. Try to take yourself out of the situation you're in and let your mind wander.

6. Give lots of XOXOs

Not only will these make for cute poses, but one of the most effective ways to relieve stress is to hug someone or to kiss them. Gather your family in a big group hug, or give your husband a kiss and let your worries melt away.

A lot of planning goes into your family session - what to wear, poses you'd like to use, location, etc. but being flexible and not setting your expectations too high can avoid a lot of frustration and help you relax.

Letting go of expectations will take a little pressure off and help everyone relax and just enjoy the time together as a family.

The perfect family photo may not be the one you have envisioned. Open your mind, relax, have fun with it and the photos will reflect a lovely memory of time spent together. If you are relaxed, your children will be too.

Make your next family session less about getting THE PERFECT SHOT and more about enjoying the time you get to spend with your family having fun.