How to Get Great Family Photos…Even When Kids Will Be Kids

Professional family portraits are a memento that every parent desires and treasures, but quite frankly, the idea often sends their anxiety through the roof because they’re picturing the struggle of getting all their kids to sit nicely together and smile for the camera. It sounds like an impossible feat, especially if your kids are very young. I can tell you that not only is it possible but it’s something you don’t need to stress about either.

I’ve been a family photographer for many years, and I’ve been a mom for years too, so I promise you that I’ve seen it all. It took me over three years to get photos of my kids when they weren’t crying during the session. I’ve discovered since then that it all comes down to giving kids the ability to be themselves and feel comfortable.

As a photographer, my goal is to capture your kids’ amazing and unique personalities while avoiding tears at all costs. I don’t want your kids to just grin and bear it – I want them to enjoy their photo session!

Sometimes this means that I need some space to bond with your kids. During your studio photo session, I might ask you to go grab a snack or a drink, or I may ask you to take a short walk during your outdoor photo session. I want your kids to understand that I’m someone they can feel comfortable with and be themselves around. I know that as a parent, you have the best of intentions when telling your kids they’ll get a reward if they smile nicely for the family photos, but sometimes they need a break from that expectation.

In truth, the best photos come from sessions when I give kids space to be, well, kids! My family has an entire photo session where my daughter was hanging upside-down with her tongue out for most of the session. But we were able to get a fantastic portrait of her smiling nicely with the family too because we gave the photographer space to do her job and allowed our daughter to release her energy. In all honesty, the photos you’ll cherish most in 20 years are those of your kids being their quirky, goofy selves.

At the end of the day, it’s all about trusting your photographer’s expertise. When you do, we make a great team!
If you’re due for new portraits, book your family photo session with me today to create and preserve memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.