You’ve booked a family photo session with me in Provence. Maybe you’re feeling a little nervous? Will the kids cooperate? Will we know what to do in front of the camera? Will we look “photogenic”?
Take a deep breath. The goal here isn’t to turn you into models. It’s to capture love, laughter, connection… the real, raw, beautiful stuff. I’m here to guide you every step of the way — to help you forget the camera and turn this moment into a meaningful, shared memory.
Before we begin: a few tips
- Come as you are: You don’t need the perfect outfit. What matters most is that you feel comfortable. Coordinate without matching — and feel free to check out my tips on how to dress for a family photo session and 5 perfect outfit ideas for your family session.
- Set the tone for your kids with humor: Tell them it’s going to be a game, a fun walk full of laughs — not a chore.
- Let go of perfection: It’s the imperfections that make your memories feel alive. If the kids are a bit wild, don’t scold them. We’ll gently bring the focus back to the experience — and keep smiling!
An incredibly wonderful experience! Marie could not have been more gracious, kind, flexible, and lovely. Our photo experience was everything we could have hoped for. We just got the photos back and they are exquisite! Her attention to detail and ability to make everyone feel comfortable created an excellent experience for our entire family. Thanks for the lovely time and can not wait for another occasion to get our photos taken!
1. Walk hand in hand
Just walk towards me… then away. Look at each other, smile, share a joke. A simple warm-up that gets everyone relaxed.
2. 1, 2, 3… jump!
One parent on each side, holding your child’s hands. “One, two, three…” and up they go! Repeat as many times as they want — they’ll love it.
3. Run into arms
A child runs toward a parent kneeling with open arms. A burst of emotion and movement — always magical.
4. Spin me around
One parent holds the child’s hands and spins them gently. Hair flying, giggles all around — joy in motion.
5. Catch me if you can
Play a little chase game — not too fast — just enough to get them laughing without getting exhausted.
6. Kiddo on your shoulders
Mum, Dad or even Grandpa lifts the little one up. Instant joy, wind in their hair, the sound of pure happiness.
7. Group cuddle
Pile up, snuggle in, giggle and bump into each other. This creates real connection and emotion.
8. Dance!
Spin freely, wear a flowy dress or a straw hat. Let go. Provence is all about lightness and freedom.
9. Look at each other, not the camera
Forget the lens — focus on each other. Those exchanged glances are pure photographic gold.
10. Hands together, forehead to forehead, Eskimo kiss
Sit face to face, hands in hands, forehead against forehead. Smile, or share a sweet little nose kiss.
11. Tiny kisses on the cheeks
Kids kissing parents, or the other way around. Spontaneous, sweet, heart-melting.
12. Sitting on a blanket
I'll set you up on a light, pretty blanket. Chat, play, read a book — I’ll capture these stolen moments.
13. Soap bubbles
Bring a small bottle of bubbles — little ones will be mesmerized!
14. Silly faces challenge
Perfect for kids (and fun parents)! First, a serious pose… then everyone makes a face! Guaranteed laughter.
15. Jump together!
Especially great for older kids. Sync your jumps for a “frozen in the air” moment full of energy.
Emina C.
We recently had photos by Marie done during a family vacation in France. Not only was she so accommodating and flexible with the booking time/location/length prior to the shoot, she was patient, creative and kind during our shoot. Despite our preschooler constantly dancing around, and our birthday boy refusing to be held during the photos, she somehow managed to capture so much goodness. If you want to capture memories in Provence forever, Marie is your girl!
What about accessories?
You don’t need props. But a few simple items can elevate the experience — and your photos. Here are some of my favorites:
- A light blanket or fouta
- Straw hats
- A woven basket
- A bouquet of lavender
- A handheld fan
- Soap bubbles
- A small pinwheel
- A beloved stuffed animal
These aren’t costumes — they’re accents. Touches of texture, color, and Provence charm to enhance the story you’re telling.
This isn’t a rulebook. Think of this as a collection of ideas — not a strict recipe. Your family photo session in Provence should feel easy, joyful, and free-flowing. No need to “pose right” or “smile properly.” Just be yourselves. Live the moment. Between the Provence lavender fields, olive groves and golden light, authenticity shows up on its own. And I’ll be right there, capturing the bond that makes your family truly unique.
Ready to turn a simple moment into a priceless memory? 📸 Book your family photo session in Provence here and let’s create something timeless — together.