5 Tips to Have Happy Kids at Your Virginia Family Photoshoot

The secret to happy kids at your session has nothing to do with threats or frustration. In fact, if you show up with that energy your kids are going to give you the same energy right back. Instead, you need to make your photoshoot FUN and make them feel like they’re included before it even starts.

1.) Tell them about your photographer, your photoshoot, and all the details. Kids are very interested in the who/what/when/where/why.  Once they’ve hit the age they can talk, I’m usually spending most of the session answering questions about my entire life. So before your session, maybe go over the minor details of who their photographer is. Their name, details they’ve sprinkled in their bio, and even their picture would be great! Showing up to a stranger with a camera doesn’t sound very fun, especially when you’re little. Giving a backstory can really help them put the puzzle pieces together so they feel like they understand (somewhat) what’s going on.

2.) Explain HOW the session is going to go. We are going to meet x (photographer) at x (location) on x (day/time). If you’re working with me, explain that these are not cheesy smile at the camera pictures! I want them to have FUN, so we’re going to go on a little adventure (or if indoors plan some fun activities) and I’m going to take pictures of them playing with you. That way, they don’t feel like they need to appear a certain way. They just need to have fun!

3.) Don’t be above bribery. Give them something to look forward to AFTER your session. Like, when we’re done we’re going to go get ice cream! Or, we’re going to go your favorite park! You get the idea. A light at the end of the tunnel helps with the kids that REALLY don’t want to be there (ahem, the older ones). Transitions can also be really hard. Many times kids don’t want to be there in the beginning and don’t want to leave at the end! Have something really good for them to look forward to at the end.

4.) PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS. Don’t just stand back with your hands in your pockets hoping your kids will do all the entertaining. You have to get involved. Run with them, hold their hand, throw them in the air, pick flowers with them, hug them, tickle them, do whatever you do normally to get your favorite giggles out of them. If you’re visibly uncomfortable, they’re going to follow your lead and also be visibly uncomfortable.

5.) Don’t get mad at them for not doing what you want them to do. Seriously, it helps no one. Some kids take awhile to warm up and that’s okay! Can you imagine your parents just driving you to a random place in nature all dressed up and telling you to act normal while a stranger puts a camera in your face? Sounds horrific, doesn’t it? Have patience. Even if they never really relax into the moment, I’ve been doing this a VERY long time. You’ll still get beautiful pictures.

By choosing to include them in planning your sessions and giving them the details, you’re going to have kids that are less weary of what’s happening and more excited to take part. They might be little, but they understand when an environment is uncomfortable. Giving them a little control of the situation can be so helpful.