Children grow up in the blink of an eye. One moment they fit in the crook of your arm, the next they’re running across the garden in their school shoes. A professional family photoshoot is one of the most meaningful ways to hold on to these fleeting years. At Bau Photography, we capture authentic family photography across Pretoria, Johannesburg and the greater Gauteng area, focusing on the real connections, laughter and personality that make your family unique.

Whether you’re planning your first family session or your annual update, this guide covers family photoshoot ideas, what to wear, how to keep little ones happy and how photoshoot booking works with us.

Why Book a Professional Family Photoshoot?

Phone snaps are wonderful, but they rarely include everyone, and Mom is almost always behind the camera. A professional family photoshoot gives you:

• Everyone in the frame: parents, children, grandparents and even the fur babies.
• Timeless heirloom art: portraits you can print as wall art, albums and photobooks rather than leaving them on a phone.
• A record of each stage: many of our families come back year after year. Our goal is to be your go-to photographer for every occasion.
• A stress-free experience: we handle the planning, posing and styling advice, so you can simply enjoy time together.

Family Photoshoot Ideas to Inspire Your Session

Every family is different, so your session should reflect your style. Here are some of our favourite family photoshoot ideas:

1. The relaxed at-home session

Cuddles on the bed, baking in the kitchen, reading stories on the couch: at-home sessions capture the life you actually live. They’re especially lovely for families with a new baby or pets who are part of the family.

2. Golden-hour garden portraits

Late-afternoon light in Gauteng is soft and warm, perfect for natural portraits. Gardens such as the Pretoria National Botanical Garden offer lush greenery and space for children to explore. Our family sessions are captured at beautiful venues, and location fees are included in our sessions, so we’ll help you choose a setting that suits your vision.

3. Multi-generational portraits

Invite the grandparents. Portraits of three or even four generations together become some of the most treasured photographs a family owns. We always welcome siblings and grandparents at our family sessions.

4. Play-based sessions for little ones

Bubbles, piggyback rides, tickle fights and walks hand in hand: gentle prompts and games bring out genuine giggles. Read our tips for a stress-free family photoshoot with toddlers for more ideas.

5. Seasonal and milestone themes

Pretoria’s jacaranda season, a new home, a pregnancy announcement or a child’s first day of school are all great reasons for a themed family session.

Family Photoshoot: What to Wear

Choosing outfits is often the part families worry about most. The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are our top tips for family photoshoot outfits:

• Coordinate, don’t match: Choose a palette of two to four complementary colours rather than identical white shirts and jeans.
• Go for soft, natural tones: Creams, sage green, dusty blue, terracotta and soft blush photograph beautifully and won’t date.
• Add texture: Knits, linen, lace and flowing dresses add depth and movement to your photos.
• Avoid large logos and busy prints: They distract from faces and can clash with the rest of the group.
• Dress for the venue and season: Light, flowy fabrics for summer, and layers for chilly Highveld winter afternoons.
• Comfort comes first: If the kids are comfortable, they’ll be happier, and it shows in the photos.

We love a well-planned colour palette, and we’ll happily help you coordinate the family’s dress code before your session. We also send style guides to help you prepare. For more outfit inspiration, read our guide: What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot: 7 Simple Colour & Outfit Ideas.

What’s Included in a Bau Photography Family Session?

Our family sessions are designed to be fun and stress-free, with the details taken care of. Depending on the package you choose, a family session with Bau Photography can include:

• A professional photography team with a photographer and assistant
• A professional make-up artist
• Luxury venue hire
• Assistance with wardrobe and styling, plus guidance with posing and prompting
• Professional true-colour editing
• An in-person reveal session to choose your favourite photos
• A private online gallery and mobile app to view, download and share your images
• A custom-designed luxury album or photobook

Multiple people are welcome, pets too, and our luxury family packages don’t charge extra for more people. Standard and custom payment plans are available. Explore the options on our family photography packages page.

“She came to my house to ensure we could include the fur babies in our photos, the shoot itself went fast and efficient and the end result is priceless!” – Monika Malan, Family Photos

Tips for a Relaxed, Happy Family Photoshoot

1. Time it around naps and meals: A well-rested, well-fed child is a happy model. Bring snacks (not sticky ones!) for breaks.
2. Talk to your kids beforehand: Let them know it’s a fun outing, not a formal event.
3. Let go of perfection: Some of the most beautiful images happen in the in-between moments.
4. Trust your photographer: We guide you through posing and prompts so everyone feels natural.
5. Be present: Put the phones away and enjoy being together. That connection is what we capture.

Photoshoot Booking: How It Works

Photoshoot booking with Bau Photography is simple and personal:

1. Enquire: Complete our contact form or send us a WhatsApp on (+27) 84 333 0822.
2. Introductory call: Our studio manager will call you to discuss your family, your vision and your preferred dates.
3. Plan together: We’ll help you choose a venue from our list of suggested locations in and around Pretoria and Johannesburg, and help you plan colours and outfits.
4. Enjoy your session: You’re never rushed. We build patience and time into every booking.
5. Reveal and keepsakes: Choose your favourite images and turn them into heirloom albums and wall art.

Tip: weekend afternoon slots and seasonal sessions (such as jacaranda season in October and November) book up quickly, so enquire early.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we wear for a family photoshoot?

Choose a coordinated palette of two to four soft, complementary colours, avoid big logos and busy prints, and dress comfortably for the season. Bau Photography sends style guides and helps you plan your colour scheme.

Can we include grandparents and pets in our family photoshoot?

Yes. We always welcome siblings, grandparents and pets. Our luxury family packages don’t charge extra for more people.

Where do family photoshoots take place?

Family sessions can take place in the comfort of your home or at one of our suggested venues in and around Pretoria and Johannesburg. We’re also open to venues you have in mind.

What is the best time of day for an outdoor family photoshoot?

Late afternoon, during golden hour, gives the softest and most flattering light for outdoor family portraits in Gauteng.

How do I book a family photoshoot with Bau Photography?

Fill out the contact form on our website or WhatsApp us on (+27) 84 333 0822. Our studio manager will call you to discuss your session.

Book Your Family Photoshoot With Bau Photography

Your family’s story is happening right now. Let Bau Photography capture it with warmth, authenticity and timeless artistry. Contact Bau Photography to book your family photoshoot, or view our family packages to find the right fit.