Family portraits capture real moments with your loved ones, but they’re just a glimpse into our day-to-day lives. Realistically, among the beautiful shots and smiling faces, there’s probably a little wrangling that goes on behind the scenes.
When I work with families, I know their photos will turn out amazing. But especially with small kids, it might take a little extra effort from all of us. It’s all part of the reality of our families, and it’s okay! I can help you prepare your kids for family portraits and make sure they’re ready to stay still for a little while.
Here’s everything you can keep in mind before your family photo session!
Set the Right Expectations
With our busy schedules, it’s so easy to forget to give your kids all the details about family events. But only telling them that you’re going to take family portraits might not mean much to them. To set expectations, you can tell them where you’re going and remind them that you’ll be working with a photographer to take photos.
With really little kids, it can help to also tell them that they’ll have to sit or stand still for a little while. By telling them in advance, the photo session won’t be a surprise. Especially if we’re taking your photos outside or at a park, standing still will be the opposite of what they’re expecting once you get there!
It can also help to let them know how long it’ll take, and if they’re nervous about photos, you can let them know that all they have to do is be themselves. Be sure to frame it all as a positive fun day, which it will be! When you enjoy your kids in the process, they’ll see it less like a chore or something they have to do.
Time It Right
Time of day is always important for lighting, but with kids involved you’ll also want to consider what time is best for them to take family portraits. Pre-teens and teens might not love a morning session, while younger kids might be too tired during afternoon nap time.
It might not be easy to find the best time for everyone, but any time of day when everyone is fed and rested is key. That way, your energy will show through the photos and you’re less likely to have any grumpy little ones.
If you only have younger kids, I do recommend an early morning session or late afternoon. In the morning they’ll be well-rested and ready to have fun during the photo session, while late afternoon is around when they’re finished with nap time. During both, the lighting is usually just right and not too harsh.
Pick Comfortable Clothing
Even if you have kids to dress for your family portraits, I actually recommend starting with mom first! Typically, mom is always the one behind the camera for her family’s photos, so we want her feeling beautiful and confident for professional family portraits. Once mom is dressed, it’ll be easier to work everyone else’s outfits around hers.
With kids, focus on comfortable clothes–nothing too tight or uncomfortable that they’ll get fussy with after a little bit. Picking your outfits is also a great way to get the kids involved so they’re even looking forward to the portrait day! By letting them choose what to wear (with some guidelines) they can show their personality and get more excited to be in the photos.
Another quick tip: focus on coordinating instead of matching. That way, your photos will look even more realistic and put-together, and everyone can feel their best instead of wearing an outfit they might not like.
Bribes & Incentives
If your kiddo’s not the sit-still-and-smile-on-command type (honestly, who is?), a little incentive can go a long way. I’ve seen parents promise ice cream after the shoot or even just some extra playtime at the park we’re already in. Simple, low-pressure, and fun!
BUT—here’s the thing. If you’re offering a reward, try to keep it flexible. We don’t want to get so strict that if your child isn’t perfectly behaved mid-session, the whole thing turns into a meltdown because “No ice cream for you!” That kind of vibe can seriously derail the fun and leave you with a bummed-out kid who suddenly wants nothing to do with smiling.
Also, a quick note on food bribes during the session—I’d skip ’em. I know, those little snacks seem like a great idea in theory, but I’ve seen it too many times: the kid just wants the treat… and then only the treat. Suddenly we’re pausing every few minutes for snack breaks, waiting for them to chew, and dealing with post-snack tears when they don’t get another one fast enough. Not exactly the joyful, free-flowing session we’re aiming for.
So yes to playful motivation—just not at the expense of the experience. We want those happy, candid moments—not a sugar-fueled negotiation, right?
Bring Comfort Items
When I take family portraits with little kids, I always make sure to plan for breaks. Even making adults sit or stand for 45 minutes straight would be hard! Short breaks help your kids keep their energy levels up and can make the whole day feel a little bit more fun.
In between sessions, I recommend having some comfort items on hand in case they’re starting to feel a little over it. Here’s what you can pack to bring to your family portrait session:
- Water
- Blankets
- Stuffed animals
- Small toys
- A book
Embrace the Chaos
Kids don’t always stick with plans or cooperate with you, and that’s ok! Your family portraits are supposed to be fun and enjoyable, so staying flexible and easygoing is key. If you start getting stressed, it might be even harder to get back on track.
Even if your kids aren’t sitting still or paying attention, those candid photos often make the best moments. With my experience shooting families, I can also make sure that your younger kids are engaged and having fun. Together, we can make your photo session more of a lasting memory than something you feel you have to do!
How to Book Your Next Family Portrait Session
If you’re ready to make some memories with your family, I’d love to work with you! I focus on capturing real moments with families so you have memories that will last a lifetime. Along with your photos, I’ll help you pick the best location and make sure your little ones are enjoying the session, not just there because they have to be.
To book your family portraits, fill out my contact form to get started! I’ll be in touch to schedule a day and time that works for you.
