Enjoy Your Family Photoshoot
Many parents worry about how their children will behave during their family photography.
Comments I have heard or been asked include:
“What if my baby doesn’t sleep like normal the night before our session? Or if she misses her nap?”
“So, my little fellow doesn’t follow instructions. At all.”
“My daughter won’t sit still for even a second.”
“My young son says no to everything.”
“My kiddo is super shy.”
“My teen hates being in photos.”
“My teen thinks photo sessions are dumb.”
Here’s the good news: stress-free family photos are possible — and often the best images come from kids being themselves.
Back Story
First, boy mom alert! I have two sons and have seen and dealt with EVERYTHING.
I also used to be a preschool teacher.
And, I’ve been doing this for over 10 years. I guarantee your child will not be the worst behaved person I have ever photographed! And keep reading for stress-free family photo tips.
Helpful Ideas and Tips for Stress-free Family Photos
Why You Don’t Need Perfect Behavior for Great Family Photos
Children are naturally curious, playful, and energetic. Instead of fighting that, I lean into it. Movement, giggles, and even a little silliness often create the most genuine images.
How I Capture Natural Smiles (Even with Wiggly Kids)
With nearly 20 years of experience, I’ve developed strategies to gently guide families into relaxed, comfortable poses. I’ll direct just enough to help, but never force kids into stiff smiles.
Tips for Parents: Creating Stress-Free Photos
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Keep expectations realistic — perfection isn’t the goal. Fun and joy and capturing real life are!
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Bring a favorite toy, blanket, or snack for comfort.
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Choose a time of day when your kids are happiest. Young kids typically do best earlier in the day. So consider scheduling a morning session. Teens may do better later in the day. Consider an evening session.
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Dress in comfortable clothes that allow for play.
Also, A Note on Your Photo Session Location Wisely
As I ALWAYS SAY, I LOVE LOVE LOVE in home family photography sessions. These are so great for helping with children and spouse behavior in many ways. Both kids and spouses are more comfortable in their own space, and can take breaks while I photograph other family members. (During breaks, partners can refill coffee/young kids can snuggle with a favorite stuffy/teens can check in with technology/etc.)
Plus, in your home, let your kids be kids! Let’s jump on beds to get out energy. If a baby falls asleep, let’s take sweet sleeping photos. It’s easy peasy, without the stress of packing snacks, multiple outfits, loading up a car, worrying about little ones falling asleep on the way to the photo session. Stop worrying!
Another perk about in home family sessions, especially if you have a toddler, is that there are confined spaces to photograph them. Many toddlers will run away from me if we are photographing at a park (and do so incredibly gleefully). But sitting them on a chair or their bed means I can typically quickly get a variety of expressions from them.
Or, if we are photographing outdoors, let’s pick an appropriate park where kids can safely burn off energy and be themselves. Let me capture them running, jumping, playing.
Playground features are a nice option for the end of a session, but if you don’t want often ugly-ish equipment to appear in your photos, pick a spot without that feature.
Last, Bribery or Reward?
I have no opinions on this. Some children do respond well to the promise of a treat or ice cream after a photography session. I just ask that you avoid feeding your kids throughout our session (unless we need a one and done food break to help you kid be happy!). You know your kid best!
Ready for stress-free family photos? I’d love to create relaxed, natural portraits for your family here in Northern Colorado. Contact me today to book your family session » https://susannahphoto.com/contact-family-photographer
