For a family photoshoot, bring both photo gear and a few people-management essentials.

Useful gear mentioned includes:

• camera with plenty of memory cards
• a standard zoom such as a 24-70mm
• a wide lens if the group is large
• tripod
• speedlights with spare batteries
• light stand
• umbrellas and a reflector
• a CTO gel if you need to warm flash light

Practical non-gear items can be just as important:

• tissues, napkins, or paper towels for quick cleanup
• a brush or comb, and detangling spray if needed
• keys or small jingly objects to get children’s attention
• a stool if you need a higher viewpoint for big groups
• an assistant to help organize people

And the repeated theme from the answers is absolutely right: patience and a sense of humor matter a lot. Family sessions, especially with kids and pets, often depend as much on keeping everyone relaxed and engaged as on the camera kit itself.