How to get the best photos with kids
Tips for a Stress Free Family Session
Family photo sessions can be an exciting opportunity to capture special memories, but when young kids are involved, they often come with a few challenges! To help parents prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience, here are some tried-and-true tips that can lead to natural smiles and heartwarming moments.
1. Timing is Everything!
Pick the Right Time of Day
The time of day plays a significant role in your child’s mood. Schedule the session during your child’s happiest time—typically after naps or meals when they’re well-rested and content. Avoid late afternoon or nap times, as tired or hungry kids are less likely to cooperate.
Be Flexible
Keep the schedule flexible. If your child isn’t in the mood at the exact start time, taking a break to let them play or have a snack can work wonders for their mood.
2. Keep it Fun, Not Formal
Turn the Session into a Game
Kids don’t often respond well to long, formal photo sessions where they’re asked to sit still and pose. Instead, make it a fun experience by turning it into a game. Play Simon Says, have a tickle fight, or blow bubbles to get them laughing. Candid moments often turn out to be the best shots.
Incorporate Their Favorite Activities
If the child loves a particular toy, game, or activity, bring it along! Letting them engage in something familiar and fun will make them feel more comfortable and happy, which will translate into genuine expressions.
3. Prepare with Comfort in Mind
Dress Comfortably
Avoid stiff or overly fancy clothing that might make your child feel restricted. Choose comfortable outfits that allow them to move and play. Soft fabrics and a familiar favorite piece of clothing can make a big difference in their mood.
Bring Snacks & Comfort Items
A hungry or cranky kid can derail even the best-planned session. Bring along easy snacks and a comfort item like a stuffed animal or blanket. A small break for food or a hug can quickly recharge your child.
4. Keep Expectations Realistic
Don’t Aim for Perfection
Not every photo needs to be perfectly posed. Some of the most beautiful and authentic images come from those unplanned, candid moments—messy hair, silly faces, and all. Let the photographer capture your child’s personality rather than striving for a flawless pose.
Let Go of Control
Kids can be unpredictable, and that’s okay. Instead of stressing over whether your child is sitting perfectly still or smiling on command, trust the photographer to capture the magic of the moment, whether that’s a giggle, a curious expression, or a quiet moment of wonder.
5.Involve the Photographer Early
Have a Pre-Session Chat
A quick conversation between the photographer and your child before the session can go a long way. This allows the child to get comfortable with the photographer, reducing any anxiety they may have about being in front of the camera.
Let the Photographer Guide the Session
Professional photographers who specialize in working with children know how to handle various situations. They’ll have tricks up their sleeves to help your child feel at ease. Let them lead the session and allow space for the process to unfold naturally.
6. Short and Sweet
Keep Sessions Short
Kids tend to have short attention spans, so keeping the session brief will help maintain their interest and energy. Aiming for 30-45 minutes is often the sweet spot for young children.
Capture the Best Moments Early
The first 10-15 minutes of the session are often when children are most energetic and engaged. Capitalize on this time by allowing the photographer to capture those initial moments of excitement.
7. Plan for Breaks
Take Regular Breaks
If the session is running longer, plan for short breaks. Let the kids run around, stretch, or even have a quick snack. Breaks help kids reset and come back refreshed, ready for more photos.
Encourage Playfulness
During breaks, playful moments like swinging them around or lifting them into the air can result in spontaneous, joyful shots.
8. Bribery Can Be Okay! (In Moderation)
Offer Small Rewards
While it’s not ideal to bribe kids throughout the session, offering a small reward at the end—like a special treat or fun outing—can be a helpful incentive. Just avoid overusing it, as it can lead to the child focusing more on the reward than enjoying the moment.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Throughout the session, offer lots of praise. Telling your child they’re doing great or that they look awesome can boost their confidence and help them stay engaged.
9. Incorporate Family Interaction
Encourage Interaction Between Family Members
Instead of having everyone staring at the camera the entire time, encourage family members to interact with each other. Parents hugging their child, siblings holding hands, or everyone laughing together creates natural, emotive photos.
Capture Connection, Not Just Poses
Moments of connection between parents and kids are often the most meaningful. Whether it’s a spontaneous hug, a tickle fight, or holding hands, these moments showcase the genuine bond and love between family members.
10. Be Patient and Embrace the Moment
Stay Relaxed
Kids can pick up on stress, so it’s important for parents to stay calm and patient. If something doesn’t go as planned, remember that a little patience and a relaxed attitude can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Let Go of Perfection
Don’t worry if things aren’t going exactly as expected. Family sessions are about capturing real-life moments, and sometimes those imperfect moments turn into the most cherished memories.
Photographing kids can be both a challenge and a joy. By keeping things lighthearted, being patient, and working with your child’s personality, you’ll ensure a positive experience that leads to beautiful, heartfelt photos. The goal is to capture the essence of your family and the unique spirit of your little ones—smiles, giggles, and all!
