Sibling photoshoots are one of my absolute favourites to capture! They’re equal parts heart-melting, chaotic, hilarious (kids really do have the best jokes), and super special - which actually, now that I think about it, honestly sums up sibling relationships pretty perfectly.
Sometimes, the thought of planning a photoshoot for multiple toddlers, kids, teenagers or even adult siblings can feel a wee bit stressful. But don’t you worry for one second, because I am here to make things as easy as possible, starting with this handy dandy guide to preparing for a sibling photoshoot at any age.
Surely it’s time to grab a cuppa and settle in for a read on how to make the most of a family photoshoot with siblings.
Choosing your location: Studio or somewhere else?
Ahh, the age-old question around here! Honestly, both options are wonderful, it really just depends on your kids’ personalities, ages, the vibe you’re hoping for; and, to be fair, the weather.
Studio sessions: Studio shoots are brilliant if you want something calm, simple, timeless and all in one easy to manage space. I’d say they work especially well for:
Newborn and sibling combinations
Babies, toddlers and kids who thrive in predictable environments
Older relatives like grandparents and their siblings
Weather-proof sessions (hello, Wellington wind and sideways rain)
Clean, distraction-free imagery that keeps the focus on connection
Studios also allow for controlled lighting, cosy temperatures for little ones, which means that a sibling shoot in my Wellington studio is a great option throughout winter, too. Oh, and did I mention snacks and coffee on-hand?
Outdoor sessions: Outdoor shoots bring a more relaxed, playful energy and give kids space to move and explore. It’s quite a nice way to capture kids' personalities in a more natural way - things like playing together at the park, or running down the beach.
They’re ideal for:
Busy toddlers who like to roam
Older kids who warm up quicker when they can play
Teenagers and young adults, who quite often feel more relaxed outside and less like they’re being put on the spot for photos
Natural, candid storytelling images
Backdrops like beaches, parks or bush walks. Outdoor shoots can be a great way to bring in a meaningful location that tells a bit of your family’s story.
At home sessions: If you want something a little in-between these two, you could opt for an at-home shoot! Keep the kids in a familiar space, and at the same time capture memories in your own home and backyard. At home sessions might be for you if:
You want to stay in the comfort of your own home for your shoot
You want to include pets in the photoshoot!
You’re keen to have images that tell your family’s story
Is there a perfect age for sibling photoshoots?
Short answer: absolutely not. Every stage has its own charm and story to tell. As an example…
Baby + toddler
This combo is beautifully sweet (and sometimes beautifully chaotic, but hey, that’s part of the fun!). Toddlers often love showing off their “big sibling” status, and those gentle moments around a new baby are incredibly special to document. Lots of careful cuddles and hugs!
Older child + young sibling
This age gap can bring some really sweet interactions! Older siblings tend to be proud helpers, and their confidence can help younger kids settle into the shoot. Whether it’s a 7 year old cuddling their 2 year old sibling, or a teenager with their younger brother or sister, this can be a fun combination.
Twins or close-age siblings
Twins and close-age siblings often have this incredible natural connection, and can be so much fun to photograph! Expect plenty of giggles and sometimes matching mischief (and surely some matching outfits?)
Older siblings
Older kids, teens, young adults, adults, elderly - I’m here for any and all sibling photoshoots! It’s never a bad time to do a photoshoot with your siblings, whether you’re 2 or 92.
How to prepare your kids for their sibling photoshoot
Preparation doesn’t need to be complicated, but a little bit of planning and setting expectations can go a long way to helping things run smoothly. As a general guide, here are a few of my top tips:
Talk about the shoot in a positive, relaxed way - it’s a no-pressure environment, and a safe space to make some fun memories!
Explain that it’s about playing, cuddling and spending time together, and don’t worry about making them sit still. The photos of kids running around with each other or playing at their favourite park can be the best images to look back on.
Avoid putting pressure on them to “be perfect” or “smile nicely”. Make sure their outfits are comfy and they’re not spending their time wriggling around trying to get comfortable
Remember that I’m very used to kids being kids, so there’s no need to apologise! If baby needs a break or your child needs a feed during the shoot, or they’re not keen to smile for a photo, don’t stress. I’ll work my magic, tell some jokes and bring out fun toys as needed.
One really fun thing to do in the lead-up to your shoot? Stage a pretend photoshoot at home. Let siblings take turns being the photographer and the model. It builds excitement and confidence, and often results in some very cute practice shots.
Things that help on the day
Sibling sessions run best when kids feel comfortable, safe, happy and well-fed (honestly, relatable for adults too). I’d recommend bringing:
Snacks or treats (non-messy options work best)
Favourite small toys or comfort items
A change of clothes just in case
Water bottles or milk feeds for younger children
A familiar blanket or taonga that feels special to your family. Sometimes those comfort items become beautiful storytelling elements within the photos too.
If you’re stuck on choosing outfits for your sibling family photoshoot, I have a handy guide here!
A little reminder for parents
Sibling photoshoots don’t need to be perfectly behaved or perfectly posed. The real magic lives in the giggles, the cuddles, the cheeky moments, and yes, sometimes even the chaos. My role is to gently guide things while leaving space for genuine interactions to unfold naturally. So really, don’t stress. We’ll roll with it on the day, and I promise we’ll capture some really sweet photos.
Sibling relationships evolve so quickly. One minute they’re tiny and curious about each other, and the next they’re running off on shared adventures or rolling their eyes at each other across the dinner table. Capturing these stages helps freeze a little piece of that relationship exactly as it is right now - messy, loving, funny, adorable. All the things and all the feels. And trust me… these are often the photos families end up treasuring the most.
