As a mom and a photographer, I know firsthand how unpredictable kids can be—especially when you’re hoping for that perfect family photo. One minute, they’re all smiles, and the next, they’re running off, refusing to cooperate, or suddenly so hungry they can’t function. Sound familiar?
I promise, it doesn’t have to be stressful! Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that help keep little ones engaged (and even excited) during a family photoshoot. My goal is always to create a fun, relaxed experience that brings out those natural, joyful moments. Here’s what works best:
1. Let Go of Perfection
First things first—real life is beautiful. Some of my favorite images come from moments when kids are just being kids. If they want to twirl, jump, or make silly faces, I say let them! The more relaxed they feel, the more natural and joyful the photos will be. Your child’s personality is what makes these photos special, and I want to capture them just as they are.
I totally get the desire for that one “perfect” shot where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling, and I always make sure to get a few of those. But often, it’s the in-between moments—the giggles, the snuggles, the way your little one reaches for your hand—that end up being the most meaningful.
2. Bring a Favorite Toy or Comfort Item
If your child has a stuffed animal they adore or a little lovey they can’t live without, bring it along! Not only does it help them feel secure, but I can also work it into the session in a sweet, sentimental way. Imagine looking back years from now and seeing your child with their beloved stuffed bunny or favorite blanket—that’s the kind of memory that tugs at your heartstrings.
Sometimes, I’ll even have kids “introduce” me to their special toy, which helps them feel more comfortable and gives us a fun way to break the ice at the beginning of the session.
3. Make It a Game
I love turning photos into a playful experience. We might do a “race to mama,” a tickle fight, or a big family group hug. These moments bring out the best giggles and create the most genuine smiles for even better photos!
I’ve found that kids respond so much better when they feel like they’re part of an adventure rather than being asked to “sit still and smile.” So don’t be surprised if I ask them to chase you, jump as high as they can, or whisper their silliest secret in your ear. Playfulness leads to the best candid moments!
4. Snacks = Lifesavers
A little snack break can work wonders! Small, non-messy treats (think fruit snacks, Cheerios, or mini marshmallows) can be a great way to keep energy up and moods happy. Bonus: They make great bribes—I mean, motivators.
I always suggest avoiding anything that melts, stains, or takes too long to chew, but a well-timed snack can be the key to getting just a few more happy moments out of a session.
5. Keep It Moving
Long, posed shots just aren’t realistic for little ones. I keep sessions flowing by moving quickly and changing things up often. We’ll play, explore, and interact rather than forcing stiff, unnatural poses.
This is where choosing the right location can make a big difference. Open fields, quiet parks, or cozy home sessions give kids the freedom to move while still allowing me to guide the session in a way that feels effortless and natural.
6. Hype Them Up Beforehand
I always tell parents to talk about the photoshoot like it’s something fun. Instead of saying, “You have to be good for pictures,” try, “We’re going to play and have so much fun taking pictures together!” Kids pick up on our energy—so if you’re excited, they will be too!
You can even let them help pick out their outfit or tell them they get to show off their best twirl, biggest jump, or silliest dance move for the camera. The more they feel like it’s something special, the more they’ll want to participate.
7. Trust the Process
Some kids take a little time to warm up, and that’s totally okay. I always follow their lead, and I promise we’ll capture beautiful moments, even if things feel a little chaotic. Some of the best photos happen when you least expect them!
I know how much these moments mean to you because I’ve been in your shoes. I’ve worried about whether my own child will cooperate, whether outfits will stay clean, or if the whole thing will just be a mess. But I can tell you this—every family session has moments of magic. Even when it feels like chaos, I see the love, the connection, and the beauty in your family just as you are.
At the end of the day, the goal is to capture your family as you are—laughing, playing, and soaking in the love you share. If you let go of expectations and embrace the moment, you’ll walk away with images that feel just as special as the memories behind them.
If you’re looking for a family photographer in Louisville who knows how to keep kids engaged and make the whole experience fun and stress-free, I’d love to work with you!
Table of Contents
- Let Go of Perfection
- Bring a favorite toy
- Make it a game
- Snacks
- Keep it moving
- Hype them up
- Trust the process
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