1. Build up anticipation with your kids. Get them excited about your photo shoot. Talk about how much fun your shoot is going to be. Discuss the activities you’ll do. Pick out clothing you’ll wear. Make a countdown on your refrigerator.

2. Don’t just smile and pose (your kids will get bored)—discuss an activity that will get your family interacting together with your photographer. This summer a couple did a silly string fight for their engagement session. It was awesome. Have fun! Go to the pumpkin patch or apple picking.

3. Choose a location that means something to your family. Do you love going to a certain park? Do you cut down a Christmas tree at the same farm every year? Take photos at home. Be in your natural environment. Play, read. Take a break. Document your family as you really are.

4. Treat yourself. This is a great excuse to schedule a haircut or manicure!

5. Layer your clothing. This will give you different looks. Kids will also want to ditch the sweater at some point. Make sure the shirt or dress underneath compliments your family’s outfits.

6. Compliment each other’s clothing—don’t match. Everyone doesn’t need to wear the same colors. If you don’t know where to start, pick a favorite outfit from one family member and build your family’s look from there.

7. Decide what you’ll do with the photos beyond holiday cards and Facebook. Print your photos and have your kids paint frames for holiday presents. Create an album so your family can snuggle on the couch and flip through it. Hang a canvas on the wall so you can look at it everyday. Create a calendar for grandma for 2015.

8. Consider the time of day for the best light. This is usually an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset. However, if you have little ones that will be cranky or hungry around that time, talk to your photographer about adjusting the time of day. But aim to shoot as close to golden hour as possible.

9. Bring snacks! Yes, your little ones might get hungry. You might too. This is also an excellent way to take a break!

10. Relax. Let’s face it, your daughter won’t wear her headband the whole time. There might be a meltdown. Your kids will definitely need a play break. That’s OK, it’s a great time to get photos!