What If My Kids Don’t Cooperate? Preparing Your Kids for a Fun Family Photo Session.
If you’re stressing about whether your kids will cooperate during family photos, you’re not alone. Almost every parent I talk to shares this exact worry. And as a mom myself, I get it! You want beautiful photos, but the thought of meltdowns, fake smiles, or restless kids can feel overwhelming.
Here’s the good news: your kids don’t have to be perfect for your photos to be perfect. Lifestyle family sessions are about real moments: giggles, snuggles, silly faces, and even those in-between expressions that show exactly who your child is right now.
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make family photo sessions not only easier but actually fun for kids (and their parents!). Here are my best tips to help your little ones enjoy the experience and give you the joyful, natural photos you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day
Kids are happiest when they’re rested and have full bellies. That’s why timing is so important. Whether it’s earlier in the morning or late afternoon, we’ll work together to find a time that works best for your kiddos. At your consult, we’ll talk through your family’s routine to choose the best time for both gorgeous light and happy kids.
2. Keep Expectations Realistic (and Fun!)
Here’s the truth: the best photos don’t come from stiff poses or forced smiles. They come from play, laughter, and connection. Instead of asking your kids to “be on their best behavior,” think of your session as family playtime. I’ll guide you through fun prompts and games that let your kids be themselves—and that’s where the magic happens.
3. Pack a Small “Session Survival Kit”
Having a few go-to items on hand can make a world of difference for your younger kids. I suggest packing:
- Small, non-messy snacks (think puffs, fruit snacks, or crackers).
- Water bottles.
- A favorite toy or comfort item (bonus points if it’s something meaningful we can photograph).
- A backup outfit for little ones—just in case.
4. Talk About the Session in a Positive Way
Kids pick up on our energy, so the way you talk about your photo session matters. Instead of calling it “picture day,” tell them you’re going to have fun and play games together. Build excitement—let them know we’ll be running, snuggling, and maybe even being a little silly. What we don’t want is pressure—so skip the “smile nice” reminders. I promise, the genuine smiles will come.
5. Let Kids Be Kids
This one’s my favorite. Lifestyle photography is all about letting your children’s personalities shine. If your little one is shy, we’ll ease in with snuggles. If they’re full of energy, we’ll turn that into fun, movement-filled images. Even the messy, unpredictable moments are worth capturing—they’re the ones you’ll cherish years from now.
6. Trust Your Photographer (That’s Me!)
One of the ways I prepare for your session is by getting to know your kids before your session. During your consult, I ask about what they’re into—whether it’s dinosaurs, princesses, Minecraft, or ballet—so I can connect with them quickly. When kids see that I care about what they love, they relax faster and open up.
On the day of your session, I allow plenty of time so we can take breaks if we need to. No 10-minute sessions here! You don’t have to stress or direct—leave that to me. My job is to bring out the joy, the connection, and the little in-between moments that make your family unique.
Final Thoughts
Your family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation (and a photographer who knows how to make it fun), it can be an experience your kids actually enjoy. And the result? Photos that feel natural, full of love, and true to who your family really is.
Let’s create photos that celebrate your family—giggles, snuggles, silly faces, and all.