Tips for Making the Most of Our Time Together
Ah, the little humans—aka the “best muses”, but sometimes the most unpredictable subjects in the royal scheme of family portraits. They bring so much personality and imagination, but they can also have their moments (sometimes more than we’d like!). Don’t worry!
As a photographer who loves capturing the real, authentic moments of family life, I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve to keep the session fun, relaxed, and full of smiles.
When it comes to shooting with kids, it’s all about preparation, flexibility, and a little bit of creativity. Here's how to make sure we’re all set up for success before we even snap the first photo.
Tip 1: Bring Their Favorite Toys
Kids are at their best when they feel comfortable and safe, and toys are one of the quickest ways to break the ice. I recommend bringing two favorite toys. One toy can be their go-to for comfort, something they feel happy and secure with, and it’s great for them to show me as a new friend! It’s a perfect icebreaker. The second toy should be kept out of sight, ready to be
used if emotions get a little too big or if we need to redirect focus.
If we’re running low on attention span (which happens!), having a third toy that makes a sound can be a great trick to grab their attention and keep them engaged with me. It’s all about fun distractions, so we can capture the best of their little personalities.
Tip 2: Plan for a Little Extra Time
Even though our time together is short, I promise you it’s going to be fun! I’m not just some photographer who’s here to get the job done—I’m your new fun friend who’s here to make sure your little ones feel comfortable, have fun, and enjoy themselves. I want them to see me as someone they can trust, and I want everyone to leave with great memories (and fantastic photos, of course!).
So, let your kids know in advance that I’m not some boring, stiff photographer—I’m here to have a great time with them! We’ll have a blast, I promise.
Tip 3: Keep Snacks Fun and Pretty
Let's be real—hungry kids can derail even the best-laid plans, so come prepared with pretty, tasty snacks. Think fruit (the more colorful, the better!), or small cookies that are easy to eat but won’t leave a big mess. The key here: NO branded bags or snacks with logos. Let’s keep it cute and simple—bring a cute basket of fruit or store the snacks in a small container that’s visually appealing and doesn’t distract from the vibe we’re going for.
And speaking of messes, it’s always a good idea to bring a change of clothes. Kids, in all their cuteness, can also be a bit messy. A change of clothes isn’t just a backup for style—it’s a lifesaver for those little spills or moments when they get a bit too into their snack. Better safe than sorry!
Tip 4: Bribery Isn’t always a Dirty Word
I know, I know—it’s not always ideal, but bribery can actually work wonders. I’m not suggesting you whip out the phone mid-session to distract your child (please, no phones during the shoot), but the promise of a small reward or family movie later can help keep the mood light and cooperative. Sometimes the key to a successful session is creating a little incentive for great behavior.Think of it as a backup plan. Littles are always on an emotional rollercoaster, and with all the brain development happening, you never know what could throw them off. Having a thought-out bribery plan (like promising a treat, extra screen time, or even a fun family outing later) can help save you stress and make the whole process smoother for everyone.
The point of this session is to capture all the sweet, fun moments of your family—without the tears. And let’s face it, it’s sometimes the little things (like a treat or a promise of a family movie) that help keep the vibe high and everyone feeling good.
Tip 5: Be Flexible and Have Fun!
At the end of the day, family portraits are about capturing memories, and that includes all the little quirks and emotions that make your family unique. Some of the best moments happen when things don’t go exactly as planned. So, stay flexible, have a sense of humor, and most importantly—enjoy the experience!
I can’t wait to meet your family and make some wonderful memories together. I’ll bring the fun, and you bring the energy. Let’s make some magic!
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