A common worry parents have is that they’ll put in the time and money to book a family photography session, get everyone ready, and get to the session on time, only for their child to be grumpy and not give them any nice smiles for the photos so their portraits don’t live up to their hopes. As a mom and a family photographer, I completely understand, and I’m here to help! Let’s talk about why you don’t have to worry as much as you think and what you can do to bring out those adorable smiles.
Worried Your Child Won’t Smile? They Will!
Kids, of course, can be unpredictable from one day to the next. Even still, I can nearly guarantee you that you will see beautiful smiles from your kids in your family portraits. I’m highly experienced in working with families and kids of all ages…and moods. I know how to put kids at ease and help them have fun during a photo session, and I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve to bring out those cute smiles you love so much!
What You Can Do to Encourage Beautiful Smiles in Your Family Photos
Try not to stress, because more than likely, your child will give us at least a few fabulous smiles during your family photo session, even if it takes a little while. But if you want to set up your family for success, here are a few ways you can swing the odds in our favor.
Try to Design a Good Mood
You know your kids better than anyone! You know what makes them happy and puts them in a good mood, whether it’s playing a particular game, eating a certain lunch, getting a good night’s sleep or a good nap, etc. Try to pull out these favorites on the day of the photo shoot to put your child in a good mood before the session.
Have a Backup Incentive
Even if your child starts the session feeling good, they might get tired or grumpy. It helps to have a backup treat ready to go so you can quickly bring a smile to their face. Be ready to tell them you’re taking them to a favorite restaurant for dinner after the session or getting ice cream on the way home, or to play that song that always makes them grin and start dancing.
Set the Tone
One of the best things you can do for your family photos is to lead by example. Put yourself in a positive mindset, release your stress, and have fun! Your kids are likely to pick up on your mood and be more joyful too. Plus, one of the challenges in family photography is getting a great smile from everyone at the same time, so if you have a beautiful smile in each shot, it lets me take advantage of every smile your child gives me.
Book Your Family Photo Session
Family photography doesn’t have to be stressful! Book your family portraits with my Doylestown, PA photo studio, and let’s have fun creating custom portrait artwork for your family.