Because one day, these will be the photos you come back to again and again.

By Pei Aui – Melbourne Newborn, Maternity, Family and Couples Photographer


We know how it goes—when it comes to planning family photos, it’s usually Mum leading the charge. Dad might grumble. Grandpa might raise an eyebrow. But when the session is over and the photos come back… it's always worth it.

Because these moments? They pass in a blink.

The tiny hands. The cuddles. The way Grandpa’s eyes crinkle when he laughs.

This is why we take family photos.

As a Melbourne newborn, maternity, family and couples photographer, I believe in capturing more than just a nice photo—I want to bottle up the feeling of family. And yes, that includes the reluctant ones too. Whether you’re booking a full family session or curious about a Father’s Day mini, here are 5 ways to make family photos genuinely enjoyable—even for the dads and grandpas who “don’t really do photos.”

A father in a red plaid shirt playfully holds a child upside down in a garden taken by Melbourne family photographer.

Make It About the Moment, Not the Pose

You don’t need to look perfect to be photographed. In fact, the most meaningful photos usually happen when you’re doing something simple together:

🎈 Kicking a footy

🍎 Sharing snacks on a picnic rug

📚 Grandpa reading a book to the little ones

🫧 Blowing bubbles in the backyard

💃 A tickle fight or a quick dad dance

These aren’t just photo ops—they’re memories in the making. And when the session feels like life, not a performance, everyone (even Dad) lets their guard down and joins in.


Comfort Over Coordination

Yes, cute outfits are lovely—but if Grandpa feels stiff in a blazer or Dad’s tugging at a too-tight shirt, the discomfort will show. Go for what feels like you: soft fabrics, warm tones, and outfits that allow you to move, play, and snuggle freely.

My styling guide helps families pick outfits that photograph beautifully without sacrificing comfort. Because when you feel good, you look good—naturally.

Grandfather and child share a joyful moment of laughter while sitting together on an orange couch taken by Melbourne family photographer
A joyful Asian family plays together and laughs while relaxing on a gray couch at home taken by melbourne family photographer.

Let the Kids Be in Charge (Just a Little!)

Sometimes the best way to get everyone smiling is to hand the reins to the littlest ones. Let your toddler direct a shot, or have your preschooler pull Grandpa into a silly game. The spontaneity not only keeps everyone engaged, but it also brings out the kind of laughter you can’t fake.

And trust me—those photos of Dad crawling on the ground or Grandpa pretending to sip imaginary tea? They become favourites, every single time.


Include the Ones We Don’t Always Think To

We often remember to photograph the kids. Sometimes Mum and Dad. But how often do we make space in the frame for Grandpa’s stories, Dad’s quiet strength, the way they both show love in their own way?

These photos become treasures—not just for now, but for the years ahead.

For your kids. For yourself. For when they’re no longer here in every ordinary moment, but still so deeply present in the photos you took.

And sometimes, all it takes is 20 minutes to capture something that lasts a lifetime.


Short & Sweet Sessions Work Wonders

Not every family wants a full-length photo session—and that’s okay. That’s why I offer both full sessions and short seasonal mini sessions (like the upcoming Father’s Day Minis across Melbourne). They’re perfect if you want to test the waters, or simply don’t have the time for a full hour.

Just enough time to laugh, play, connect—and walk away with a handful of images you’ll treasure forever.

A father holds a baby on their shoulders in a sunny outdoor setting with trees in background taken by Melbourne family photographer.

Why This Matters

Family photography isn’t about posing perfectly or ticking off a yearly to-do.

It’s about remembering.

It’s about being seen.

It’s about showing our children—and ourselves—that these everyday moments are worth documenting.

And it’s about honouring the quiet, steady presence of the dads and grandfathers who’ve shaped our families in a hundred little ways.

Not always with words, but always with love.


Ready to Make It Happen?

Whether you’re thinking of a full family session or one of my limited Father’s Day Mini Sessions, I’m here to make the process easy, fun, and full of meaning—yes, even for the reluctant ones.

✨ Bookings are now open for both full and mini family sessions across Melbourne.

Let’s capture the love, the laughter, and the little moments that matter most.