Family photoshoots are such a great way to capture the love and personality of your family. When you add little ones into the mix, it brings a whole new level of joy and fun—but it can also make the session a bit trickier. Kids, especially younger ones, don’t always love sitting still for pictures. As a photographer, I've picked up a few tricks that help make sure the kids enjoy themselves and that we capture beautiful, natural moments that you'll treasure.
Here are some tips for making your family photoshoot fun and involving your little ones in the process!
1. Make It Fun!
Kids, especially younger ones, can get restless or disinterested quickly if they feel like they’re being forced to pose for photos. To keep them engaged, turn the photoshoot into a fun experience! Try incorporating games, like “Simon Says” or “Hide and Seek,” to get them laughing and interacting naturally. Candid moments like these can turn into some of the most memorable photos.
2. Bring Their Favorite Toy or Blanket
Sometimes the comfort of a toy, stuffed animal, or blanket can help little ones feel at ease during a photoshoot. If your child has a favorite item that they carry with them or cuddle, bring it along to make them feel more comfortable and relaxed. I’ve had clients bring their child’s favourite doll, truck, or even a blankie, and it also adds a personal touch to the photos.
3. Use Props to Encourage Play
Props can help spark creativity and excitement during a family session. Consider bringing a bubble machine, balloons, or even a ball. These items can engage little ones and make them smile naturally. Kids love to interact with props, and it’s an excellent way to capture playful moments. Plus, they’ll likely forget they’re even in a photoshoot!
4. Capture Genuine, Unposed Moments
The best photos of children are often the ones where they aren’t being told what to do. Instead of focusing solely on posed portraits, encourage your child to interact with their parents or siblings in a way that feels natural. Playful tickling, piggyback rides, or a simple cuddle can create a moment of connection that results in a great image. The more relaxed everyone is, the more natural and beautiful the photos will be.
5. Incorporate Movement
Little ones are full of energy, and that energy can make for some great photos! Let them run, jump, or spin around. A photo of a child running toward the camera, laughing as they go, can be incredibly sweet. You can also try family shots where everyone is in motion, such as walking hand-in-hand or twirling.
6. Don’t Worry About Perfection
It’s important to remember that little ones might not always want to cooperate in the way we envision. And that’s okay! Some of the most beautiful family photos are the ones where children aren’t perfectly posed. Maybe they’re looking away or have a silly expression. These moments reflect real life, and they are often the most meaningful images to look back on. So, don’t stress about perfection—let the magic unfold naturally and capture the craziness of the here and now!
7. Involve Them in the Process
If your little one is old enough, include them in the process by letting them choose an outfit or helping you pick out a location. The more involved they feel, the more excited they’ll be about the photoshoot. Allowing them to express their creativity in the planning stage can help make them feel empowered and more at ease during the shoot.
8. Take Breaks if Needed
If you notice your child starting to lose interest or get cranky, don’t hesitate to take a break. A few minutes of downtime can work wonders and allow them to recharge. Whether it's a snack, a quick cuddle, or just some time to relax, a small break can help keep the session flowing smoothly and ensure that everyone stays happy.
9. Use Positive Reinforcement
Kids love praise! If they’re doing something you want to capture, like smiling, laughing, or cooperating with a pose, offer plenty of positive reinforcement. Compliment their big smile, high-five them for a job well done, or give them a hug. Positive encouragement helps them feel more confident and keeps the session feeling lighthearted.
10. Trust Your Photographer
Lastly, trust that your photographer knows how to work with children. A good family photographer is experienced in working with little ones and knows how to create an environment where they feel comfortable and have fun. Communicate with your photographer beforehand about your child’s temperament and any specific things they enjoy, so the session can be tailored to your family’s unique needs.
If you’re ready to capture some fun moments with your little ones, I’d love to work with you! I know how to keep things relaxed and enjoyable, so everyone feels comfortable and has a great time during the shoot. Let’s make some amazing memories together! Get in touch today to book your family photoshoot, and we’ll create photos that you’ll cherish for years to come.