Five Tips For Happy Kids During Our Family Photography Session

With any family photography session, I understand you may be a little stressed or anxious about how your kids will behave. Will they throw a temper tantrum? What if they refuse to smile? I want you to take a deep breath and relax– I don’t expect perfection, and neither should you! As a mama first, I know that kids are temperamental, and as a lifestyle photographer, I don’t want them to be posed all the time! Now, I’m not saying that I’m looking for a free-for-all; however, I have a few tricks to keep your children happy and on their best behavior during our session. 

1. Remember, I Capture The Imperfections 

I have been saying this a lot lately since so many mamas I work with get set on having an absolutely perfect session. My job is to photograph moments that would have otherwise gone forgotten, or maybe even a moment you never would have thought as one you would ever tangibly cherish! What I mean by that is there is such beauty in motherhood and in your family that you don’t get to see from the outside. Maybe your toddler is running along the beach, and even though they might be running away from you to try to get a rise out of you, all the photograph will tell is the story of a carefree and happy child. There is pure magic in the chaos, trust me. 

2. If They Start To Act Out, Don’t React

Easier said than done, I know! Our children love to push our buttons, and they know just how to push them. If you feel a tantrum coming on, just keep things light. As the photographer, I will do all I can to engage with your little one in a way that makes them feel special. I know how delicate a situation can be, and we’re all doing our best! I will do what I can to appeal to your little one(s) and remind them of all the fun they’re having with mama and dad. 

3. Have The Session Be Part Of A Special Day Overall 

This is a great trick I’ve learned over the years. In the week leading up to our session, build up the excitement! Plan a whole day with your children that begins with the session, and leads to even more amazing activities. My studio is perfectly located in Palm Beach, so if our session is there you can take them out for lunch afterwards. If we’re at the beach, bring supplies for a beach picnic, or get a special treat later in the day. No matter how you want to, making a whole family day out of our family photography session will make your littles so excited. 

4. Bring Some Reinforcements… Just In Case 

Especially if you have a toddler and a newborn for our session, I recommend bringing along a little baggie of goodies to have on hand just in case. Nothing sticky or chocolatey, of course! Teddy grahams or mini marshmallows they can easily pop into their mouths are perfect options, and even fruit snacks can work. Using a little treat can move your littles steadily along, but nothing so much where they’ll have a sugar crash by the end of the session. 

5. Enjoy The Moment

Bringing this back into my first tip… mamas, enjoy these moments with your little one(s)! I do everything I can to take all the stress out of this experience, from wardrobe to location to the finished products, so you get to enjoy this beautiful time with your family. Children are intuitive, and they know when you’re feeling anxious (especially newborns). Take a deep breath, and try to be present with your babies. My goal is for a smooth session that results in memories to last your and your family generations. Everything doesn’t have to be exactly one way or another; be silly, laugh, and play! We’re in this together. 

Let’s Get In Touch

When searching for family photography services, it’s important to be sure their services align with what you’re looking for! I love working through the entire creative process with you, from session styling to your finished custom frames or heirloom album. If you’re seeking photography in the Palm Beach County area, let’s get in touch! I would love to work with you to capture your memories. Additionally, read all about my luxury photography experience, and follow me on Instagram for the latest posts and announcements.