As a parents to four kids, all 6 years old and under, including 1 year old twins, we deeply value capturing the fleeting moments of joy and innocence in photos. These moments tell stories that kids can look back on to understand their place within the family—its history, its present, and its future. While the idea of a family photoshoot may seem daunting, especially with unpredictable little ones, it’s important to remember that meltdowns and chaos are part of the experience—and that’s okay! With over a decade of experience, we’ve gathered insights to make family photos as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Let’s dive deeper into each of these points and how they can turn your family photoshoot into a memorable experience.
Timing is everything when planning a family photoshoot. Understanding your children’s routines and energy levels can make a world of difference. If your little ones usually nap at 3:00 pm, scheduling a session during that time might not be ideal. Instead, consider times when they’re well-rested and energetic. For instance, summer mini-sessions can be a great option, as they often occur later in the day when your kids are refreshed after their nap.
Preparation is key, especially for older kids. Children aged four and up normally respond well when you explain what to expect, especially after arriving and meeting us. Let them know why the photoshoot is important and what you’ll be doing. Many photographers, including us, are happy to show kids the back of the camera so they can see the results of their efforts. This small gesture can spark their excitement and engagement, even if it slows the process slightly.
Patience is a virtue every photographer embraces, especially when working with children. From the parents’ perspective, it might feel like things aren’t going well when kids don’t immediately cooperate. But trust your photographer—they’re likely capturing more beautiful moments than you realize. Flexibility is another crucial factor. Sometimes, a perfectly posed shot isn’t possible, but candid moments, like throwing leaves in the air, often result in the most cherished images.
Props can transform a potentially stressful situation into a fun experience. Bring along your child’s favorite toy, bubbles, or even a balloon. These items not only grab their attention but also serve as creative tools to keep them entertained. If your child starts feeling overwhelmed, these props can act as comforting distractions, helping to reset their mood.
The presence of familiar faces can work wonders during a photoshoot. Inviting a grandparent, aunt, or close family friend can provide the extra encouragement your child needs to relax and enjoy the session. These trusted individuals can also help manage the kids, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. I can’t tell how many times this tip has saved a shoot.
Children, like adults, have limited attention spans—though we adults might hesitate to admit it. Incorporating breaks into the session allows kids to recharge, whether it’s having a snack, taking a short walk, or playing for a few minutes. These pauses prevent frustration and keep the energy positive throughout the shoot.
Family photos aren’t just for parents; they hold deep significance for children as well. These images provide a tangible connection to their place within the family, helping them understand where they come from and how they fit into the bigger picture. Looking at these photos in the future, they’ll see the love and effort that went into preserving these memories, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. Print them, put them on your walls, we highly HIGHLY recommend getting a family photo album of the session for you kids to look at. You’ll be surprised how often they do.
Despite the best planning, meltdowns can happen—and that’s perfectly okay. As parents, we often feel the pressure to make everything go smoothly, but it’s important to embrace the reality that kids will be kids. Pack essentials like snacks, water, tissues, and a change of clothes. When a meltdown occurs, offer comfort and move on. It’s just a moment, not the end of the world. Trust that your photographer has the experience to work around these hiccups and still capture stunning images.
Also we are parents and if you think our kids don’t meltdown, you’re welcome to come to our house any day of the week. It’s not a reflection of your parenting, they are children.
What would be more weird? Your kid melting down or your 2 year old looking at you and saying, “Mom, I can tell that these photos are very important to you, and you know how much I love making sure that your feelings are affirmed. Since you want this to go as smoothly as possible I will keep all of my emotions regulated for the duration of this shoot, I will smile, laugh, and create the best possible poses for you to print and hang up on the mantle or to post on Instagram for 27 people to like it.” …That would me more weird. Meltdowns are fine.
As parents, we often feel the need to apologize for every little hiccup during a photoshoot. Trust me—it’s not necessary! From our side of the camera, we understand that kids are unpredictable, and we are prepared for it. What feels overwhelming to you likely looks like a normal day’s work to us. So relax, enjoy the process, and save those apologies for something else.
One common misconception is that photographers need hours to capture the perfect shot. In reality, experienced photographers know how to work efficiently, especially with children. Even a short session can yield a treasure trove of images. The key is knowing how to engage with kids and seize the fleeting moments when everything comes together.
Photographing families is about more than just creating beautiful images—it’s about telling your unique story. By embracing the unpredictability of kids and focusing on creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere, you can turn a potentially stressful experience into a joyous one. Remember, family photos are a gift for both you and your children, preserving moments they’ll treasure for years to come.
Ready to book your next family photoshoot? Reach out today, and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.
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