Tips For Successful Photoshoots With Kids

As a family photographer, I am constantly learning from my clients. No two families are exactly alike, however the one thing they all typically have in common, is the one child who is not interested in the photoshoot...at all. In my experience, there are three main things to remember about scheduling a photoshoot with children: 1) Don’t skip out on nap time 2) Engage them 3)It’s supposed to be fun.

1. Don’t Skip the Nap

   No but seriously, let the kid sleep! I know that when I first get up in the morning for the first like 10 minutes, lets be honest its more like 30 minutes, I just either lay their and gather myself or I grab my phone but one thing I know for sure I am not in the mood to engage with others as soon as I get up. Kids are the same way, once they first get up they won’t happily just engage with others yet alone a stranger that they are probably meeting for the first time. By scheduling your appointment 30 minutes to an hour after your child wakes up, you are more likely to get those happy, smiling photos to show off to your friends and family!

2. Engage Them

   Kids tend to think cameras are fascinating, especially in the three to six age range. They ask me a million questions about what my equipment does and the “whys” never seem to end. I take full advantage of these moments because that means the kid is actually in the moment. More often than not, I let them take a couple test shots and it helps them feel like they are a part of the experience. Who knows the image that little John takes might be your favorite image. Not to mention, now that little John has taken the photos and asked mom and dad to smile for the picture, when it is their turn to be in the photo they will smile.

3. It’s Supposed to Be Fun

   Lastly, although you scheduled the session so you can have a beautiful photo of your family. If you’re looking for the perfectly posed, posh, wax museum style family photos, I can tell you now, I am not your guy. I want to capture who you really are as a family, so if your kid wants to keep their bear in the shoot, I say let them. If they want to run around a little bit, the camera can be put into sports mode and I always wear comfy shoes. Be silly, be happy, but most of all enjoy this time together.

There you have it! Three little tricks you can use to ensure that your family photoshoot is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Related: How Often Should You Take Family Photos?