Hints:

Here are just a few hints on how you can make the most from your photo shoot.

Colours Try to have your family wear  similar colours.  This creates a homogenous effect, that looks a million bucks.
Stripes Make sure family members don't wear outfits that clash with others in the photo - ie vertical stripes vs checks, or a green vs orange
Favourite object Think about a favourite object that you or your child may have - something that may represent who you are ( a few examples: teddy bear, your favourite novel, a work tool, etc )  Photos that have you doing something are often favourites.
Garden feature If outdoors look for a feature - this may be an old gnarled gum tree or your special garden seat
Sun and shade The best times for outdoor pictures is when the sun is not too harsh, ie afternoons or mornings.  Noon can be used if you are under a well shaded tree ( a fairly constant shade, ie no shafts of light shining through )
Young Children Try to book a time after their normal sleep time.  Be sure they have something to eat.  As all parents know, kids are happiest at these times.

Preserving your photos

Sunlight Be sure to keep your photos out of sunlight.  UV light is the real killer of prints.  If you hang them on the wall, look for where the morning and evening sunlight hits the walls.