"My kids hate having their picture taken"
I hear this more often than not. Most kids don't like the pressure of performing for the camera, especially in front of a stranger, plus they have little appreciation for the precious memories their parents are trying to preserve. It is completely normal for kids to feel this way! (And honestly, lots of dads feel this way too!)
I've worked with children for years and I have two kids of my own -
Kids being kids doesn't intimidate me!
Let me assure you, this does not have to be a miserable experience for everyone - Keep reading and I'll give you a few easy steps for how to make this a great experience for the whole family.
My 5 favorite ways to help kids have fun during family sessions:
1: Stay positive as you talk about the upcoming session
The tone you set before the session starts can make all the difference! If you're stressing in the car, threatening punishment, or bribing good behavior, your kids may expect the session to feel like a chore—and depending on their personality, they might resist engaging altogether.
Instead of focusing on the fact that pictures will be taken, talk about the exciting aspects of the experience: the beautiful location, how your daughter’s skirt twirls, or how many bugs your son can spot during the session. Shift the focus to having fun together.
Resolve as a team (you and your husband) to stay positive throughout the session
Your kids will look to you for cues on how they should act.
They aren’t trying to ruin your memories; they’re likely just feeling self-conscious.
I completely understand how frustrating it can be when a family member freezes in front of the camera. It’s easy to slip into thoughts like, “Don’t they understand how important these photos are to me?” But the truth is, they probably don’t—especially your kids.
To them, this is a new and potentially awkward situation. They might feel shy, silly, or even a little embarrassed.
If you can respond to their behavior with patience and calmness, you’ll create a safe space for them to relax and actually enjoy the session. Avoid letting frustration creep in—it can unintentionally drive a wedge between you and your kids. Instead, meet them where they are, and you’ll set the tone for a fun, connected experience.
2: Enter into your child's world and explore with them
Kids thrive on our attention, and my sessions are designed to focus on exactly that. Instead of posing stiffly or constantly looking at me, I’ll encourage you to engage with your child—play, laugh, and explore together.
It’s okay if they get a little silly! Let them show off or ham it up for the camera. Those moments capture their true personality, and they’ll be a joy to look back on. Plus, this helps me build rapport with your child so that when it’s time for a posed smile, they’re comfortable and happy to cooperate.
For example, if I suggest, “Little Suzy, why don’t you hold Mommy’s hand and spin?” and Suzy decides to dart off instead, don’t feel frustrated or pressured to make her follow my exact direction. Instead, join her in the fun! Hold her hand and skip together, or scoop her up for a burst of tickles and cuddles.
Be genuinely curious about the location—explore it together, see the world through your child’s eyes, and don’t hesitate to get down on their level. These moments of connection and play make for the most meaningful photos.
A few suggestions for games to play with kids during family pictures
The tickle game - I suggest this one a lot! Tickling is such a fun way to engage your kiddos
Follow the leader - This is another one that I use in almost every session. To make it even more fun, tell a story as you play!
Whisper secrets - This can be funny or sweet, you know your child best. Maybe they just want to hear how much you love them, but maybe they want to hear that daddy has stinky farts.
Ring around the Rosie - this is a good one for littles who have lots of energy!
Counting game - Count something in the environment: bugs, flowers, colorful leaves, etc.,
3: Let them take breaks
Kids’ attention spans are naturally short, and a full photo session can feel overwhelming for little ones. Build in mini breaks during the session where they can play, explore, or just take a breather. Secretly bring along a favorite snack, toy, or comfort item for these moments. When kids feel less pressured and more at ease, they’re more likely to re-engage with genuine joy when it’s time for photos.
4: Dress them comfortably
We can talk about this as we work together on styling your outfits, but it is important to make sure that everyone is comfortable in the outfits you choose for them. Checking well before your session to make sure outfits (don't forget shoes!) fit properly. Try to let your child be part of choosing their outfit (specifically for older kids who have a preference.) This will help your children feel part of the planning process and more excited to participate.
5: Be flexible and go with the flow
Kids are unpredictable, and sessions rarely go exactly as planned. If your child wants to run in circles or insists on making silly faces, embrace the chaos! Sometimes the best photos come from letting go of expectations and letting kids be themselves.
Family photo sessions don’t have to be a stressful ordeal. With a little preparation, a playful mindset, and a focus on connection, you can create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone—especially your kids. These tips will help capture not just beautiful images, but also fond memories of a fun day together.
If you’re in the process of choosing the perfect photographer for your family, check out my blog post [10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Photographer for Family Photos] for helpful tips to guide your decision.
Heartfelt & Joyful Photography
Hi, my name is
Susannah!
Capturing the beauty in everyday motherhood moments and embracing the nostalgia of childhood.
I crave authenticity, thrive on emotional connection, and see life through a romanticized lens—especially when it comes to capturing the love and chaos of family life.
As a wife, mama, and lover of photographs, I know how quickly these moments pass—the snuggles, the giggles, the fleeting seasons of motherhood. That’s why I’m passionate about creating images that don’t just capture how your family looks but how these moments feel.
Moments like the way your newborn nestles against you to, the laughter on your bouncing toddler's face, the shifting dynamic as you pull your no-longer-little child into your embrace one more time and you laugh together, my sessions are about preserving the stories you’ll hold onto forever.
Let’s create something timeless, meaningful, and uniquely yours—images that will bring you right back to the love and connection of this season, over and over again.
