10 Tips to Prepare for a Photo Portrait Studio

June 15, 2025

📸 Prepare for Your Family Photoshoot and Enjoy It

Planning your family photoshoot Leicester is exciting, isn’t it? But it can also feel like a lot to think about. Maybe you’re stressing over what to wear, wondering how the kids will behave, or trying to figure out how on earth you’ll get the dog to sit still. It’s totally normal to feel that way.

The good news? With a little prep—and the right photographer—you’ll not only survive your photoshoot, but actually enjoy it. Here are ten practical tips to help your session with John Jenkins Photography go smoothly (and maybe even turn out to be one of your favourite days).

Why a Family Photography Studio Leicester?

Choose a Photographer Who Understands Families
This is a biggie. You want someone who gets that kids have short attention spans, parents are juggling a million things, and dogs… well, dogs just do what they want. John Jenkins Photography is known around Leicester for laid-back, natural sessions—and for being great with both kids and pets. That relaxed energy really helps set the tone for your session.

Dress Comfortably (But Thoughtfully)

You don’t have to go full Pinterest-perfect. Think soft colours, layers, and clothes you can move in. If you’re coordinating outfits, aim for a colour palette rather than identical clothes. And if your toddler insists on wearing their superhero cape? Let them. It’s part of the memory.

Decide Between Studio and Outdoor Locations

Leicester has some gorgeous parks and green spaces, but let’s be real—the weather is unpredictable. If you’d rather not gamble, John’s Lutterworth studio is bright, welcoming, and weatherproof. You get all the control of a studio without losing that natural, personal vibe.

Let the Kids Know What to Expect

Prepping your kids can make a world of difference. Keep it simple—tell them they’re going to have fun taking some pictures together. You could even show them a few examples from John Jenkins Photography’s website so they know what to expect. And don’t forget to pack a favourite toy or snack, just in case.Feed Everyone First (Including Yourself)

A hungry family is a cranky family. Make sure everyone has a bite to eat beforehand, and bring along a few tidy snacks just in case. Something small, like raisins or crackers, can help smooth over a mid-session slump.

🏡 Who We Work With

Bring the Dog— No Really
Don’t leave your pup behind! John is an experienced dog photographer in Leicester and he knows how to keep even the wiggliest pets calm and camera-ready. Bring their favourite toy or a treat, and let them be part of the fun. Trust me, those shots with your dog will be some of the most treasured.

Plan Around Your Family’s Routine

Think about when your family is usually at their best. If your toddler crashes by 2 PM or your teenager hates mornings, schedule accordingly. Most families do well earlier in the day, before naps, meltdowns, or post-lunch energy dips kick in.

Embrace Imperfection

You don’t need every hair in place or every kid looking at the camera. Some of the most meaningful photos come from the messy, in-between moments—the giggles, the cuddles, the unexpected glances. John is brilliant at capturing those tiny, authentic pieces of your family story.

🖼️ Trust the Photographer

Trust the Photographer (That’s Why You Hired One)
John Jenkins has years of experience helping families feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. He’ll guide you through the session with gentle direction, a sense of humour, and an eye for moments that matter. You don’t have to “perform”—just be yourselves.

Enjoy the Process and the Results

A couple of days after the shoot, you’ll have a relaxed viewing session to choose your favourite images. There’s no hard sell, no pressure—just your beautiful photos and print options that are genuinely worth displaying.

Your family photoshoot in Leicester doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of preparation and a photographer like John Jenkins who knows how to bring out the best in everyone (yes, even the dog), it can be a fun, memorable experience. One you’ll look back on with a smile—every time you walk past that framed photo in your hallway.

📅 Book Your Family Photography Session Today

📞 call us on 01455 557974 📞

Check Available Dates For £45 Session

       EXCELLENT  
   Based on 502 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   The Wojmeister 
 11 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
We booked John for a dog portrait/couples shoot.  John provided an overview price list up front with a follow up one for the detailed choices available.  John was welcoming and professional throughout and patient in setting up the shots with our border collie.  We came back about a week later to look at the shots and loved them all.  Loads of choice in sizes, finishes and styles.  We opted for the digital package containing all the shots taken on the day (both colour and b&w) so that we could make calendars & mugs etc for family.  These were high resolution so no detail lost.
Great photos, friendly and professional service.  Highly recommend.
Session type: Couples plus pet portrait
Hometown: Coalville, Leicestershire
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   scott burvill 
 2 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +3
My wife and I took the dogs to the studio after winning a Facebook competition. For a dog shoot ,  John was amazing and patient with the dogs and the results spoke for themselves selves , we ended up buy all of the digital files as there were too many picture we loved to choose from

Helen &scott
Byfeild
Northampton
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Amanda Stanford 
 29 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
I booked a session with John Jenkins Photography for photos of me and my two Golden Retrievers, Kasper and Stanley. The whole experience felt relaxed and genuinely enjoyable. There was no pressure, no rushing, just a lovely atmosphere that made it easy to just be ourselves.
What really stood out was how brilliant John was with the dogs. Kasper and Stanley aren't exactly known for doing as they're told, but John was patient, playful, and clearly knew how to get the best out of them. The photos captured both dogs' personalities beautifully, and some of the shots of the three of us together are exactly what I'd hoped for.
If you're thinking about booking a pet photography session, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend John Jenkins Photography. Truly lovely work.
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Jenny Wilks 
 27 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. Two pups and two kids
We came for a photoshoot ,now we didn’t know what we were walking into with two pups and two Asd ,adhd kids but I can tell you now this was brilliant ,made to feel so comfortable and the photos were outstanding!!I just cannot express how happy I am with them was so hard to choose and for the quality they really are a bargain 
Will definitely be coming back n hopefully the pups will actually do what they are supposed to on que but considering they do not now I’m so shocked at how well the photos turned out!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Graham Proud 
 21 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
John has a lovely studio in Lutterworth with plenty of parking nearby (and next door to the Real Ale Classroom in case you're early for your appointment!). There are stairs so maybe tricky for people with limited mobility. He immediately put us and the dogs at ease. He clearly is used to working with dogs as he had lots of tricks to get them to settle and focus on the camera. We are delighted with our photos as he has really captured the different personalities of our two boys and as fox red labradors, they look amazing against the black background. Definitely recommend John for a photo shoot.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sheila Darton 
 9 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My son gave me a voucher for my birthday. We travelled from Leighton Buzzard and met the rest of our family at the studio. We received a warm welcome when we arrived and John made everyone feel at ease. He was brilliant with our two granddaughters (6 & 3) and really captured who they are. We have some amazing photos of them, the whole family (including a 5 month old puppy) along with individual photos. The whole experience was great and a lot of fun, we would definitely recommend John.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Amie Brown 
 24 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lovely service. John was great and made us feel welcome and we had a great time during the shoot. The photos are amazing too. Thank you so much :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Paris Smith 
 17 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. lovely experience john was brilliant, lovely photoshoot and the pictures are stunning.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Matthew Darton 
 1 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fantastic time at Johns studio, it was a very laid back session with a 12 week old puppy at the time. Photos that were taken were amazing, especially due to my dog being all black, John managed to capture all his features. Very pleased and would highly recommend. Thanks
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sam Hall 
 26 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We travelled from Burbage for a family and dog photoshoot. The whole experience was fantastic. He managed the dog well which fora. large puppy is no mean feat. He provided clear direction for the poses. The studio was well equipped and comfortable. The end result was beautiful and the prices were excellent. Would highly recommend to anyone in the Leicestershire area.
  
 
 
  
 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

What areas do you serve for family photography?

John Jenkins Photography is a family portrait studio based in Lutterworth,
Leicestershire. Family photography sessions take place at our Lutterworth
studio, and we regularly photograph families from Leicester, Coventry,
Hinckley, Rugby and Market Harborough, as well as Lutterworth itself and the
surrounding villages.

Family photography by area:

Family Photography Leicester
Studio family portrait sessions for Leicester families, from toddlers to grandparents.

Family Photography Lutterworth
Our home town. Family portrait sessions for Lutterworth families and the
villages around it.

Family Photoshoot Coventry
Family photoshoot sessions for Coventry families, covering Earlsdon, Allesley
and Cheylesmore.

Family Photography Hinckley
Studio family portrait sessions for Hinckley families.

Family Photography Rugby
Studio family portrait sessions for Rugby families.

Family Photography Market Harborough
Studio family portrait sessions for Market Harborough families.

A List of All Our Family Photography Helpful Articles

Our dog photography serves nearby areas including Lutterworth, Leicester, Rugby, Hinckley, Coventry and Market Harborough.

Contact Us

We'd love to hear from you!

Email

studio@jjphoto.co.uk

Phone

01455 557974

Address

6 Station Road, Lutterworth LE17 4AP