“My kids would never sit through a photo session.”

I hear some version of this all the time, and the age of the kids doesn’t seem to matter. Parents of babies worry about naps and meltdowns. Parents of toddlers are sure theirs will run off. Parents of teenagers are bracing for eye-rolls and one-word answers. And parents of adult kids wonder if everyone will even agree to show up.

Here’s what I’ve learned after more than 12 years of photographing families in Tsawwassen and South Delta: every age comes with its own challenges, and every age is still a great age for family photos. Kids don’t need to be perfectly behaved for a session to work. They just need to be themselves.

Here’s why each stage is worth capturing, whatever stage your family is in right now.

Babies: Because They Change Every Single Week

Those tiny fingers, the chubby cheeks, the way they fit perfectly in the crook of your arm. It all goes so much faster than anyone warns you. Babies change almost weekly, and the version of the little one you’re holding today won’t be here in three months.

Baby photos also capture you in a season you’ll barely remember through the sleep deprivation. Years from now, you’ll be so glad there’s proof of how you looked at them.

Toddlers: Because Their Personalities Are Finally Showing Up

Yes, toddlers run. They wiggle, they refuse to sit, and they’d rather play with sticks than smile at the camera. But honestly? That’s the good stuff.

This is the age when their personality really starts to come through: the belly laughs, the stubborn little faces, the way they grab your hand to show you a rock. Those in-between moments are exactly what I love to capture, and they’re what you’ll treasure most.

School-Age Kids: Because They Still Want to Hold Your Hand

Somewhere between five and ten, kids hit a sweet spot. They’re old enough to be part of the fun (and to follow a direction or two), but young enough that they still climb into your lap and hold your hand without thinking about it.

This is the age of missing teeth, silly jokes, and genuine joy at a beach session. It’s pure magic, and it doesn’t last forever.

Pre-Teens: Because They’re Right on the Edge of Growing Up

Pre-teens are in such a fascinating in-between stage. One minute they’re still little kids, and the next you catch a glimpse of the young adult they’re becoming.

Photos at this age capture that transition beautifully. You’ll look back on these images and see both versions of them at once, the child they were and the person they’re turning into.

Teenagers: Because They’re More Fun Than You Think

I know, I know. Getting a teenager to agree to family photos can feel like a negotiation. But once they’re there, teens are some of my favourite people to photograph. They have real senses of humour, they’re easy to talk to, and they often end up enjoying themselves far more than they expected to.

These are also the last few years before they start heading out into the world. Photos of your teen standing next to you, maybe taller than you now, are ones you’ll never regret having.

Adult Kids: Because Having Everyone Together Is Rare

When your kids are grown, getting everyone in the same place at the same time becomes something special. Busy schedules, jobs, partners, maybe even grandkids: these gatherings don’t happen as often as they used to.

A family session with adult children is about celebrating who your family is now. The dynamics are different, often more relaxed and full of inside jokes, and the photos become a record of a family that’s grown up but still chooses to show up for each other.

So, When Should You Book?

Now. Whatever age your kids are, this is the youngest they’ll ever be again, and the only time this exact version of your family exists. You don’t need to wait for the baby to walk, the braces to come off, or everyone to be home for the holidays.

The best age for family photos is the age your family is today.

If you’re ready to capture this season, I’d love to hear from you. Fall sessions in South Delta are booking up, so now is a great time to reach out. Book your session here.

Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is available for maternity, newborn, family portraits and headshots at locations in South Delta, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!