Does the idea of a family photo shoot with small children stress you out?  It doesn’t have to… We love working with little kids and have figured out some tips and tricks to have a great family portrait session! 

“Silence is golden, unless you have kids, then silence is just plain suspicious.”

– Anonymous

• Plan Ahead: Time for a shopping trip, get those outfits ready ahead of time and put them to the test…can everyone sit and move in them comfortably?  Be sure that you have some options as well, Colors that contrast are a great addition to the mix. Choose clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for the location and weather, there is no need to freeze your butt off, and pit stains are never attractive, so make sure that not only the kids are comfortable but you are too! 

• Start Preparing your Kids Early: Getting them in the right mindset and mood is key…” Guess what?!  In a couple weeks we’re going to play at the park while some of Mommy’s friends are there to take pictures of us!  What are some fun things that we can do while we’re at the park?” 

• Let The Kids Help Plan: What are some of their favorite locations – a park? – that would be fun to visit?  Have them practice some favorite expressions and poses.  What are some fun activities – tag? – that they could do?

•  If You’re Stressed, So Are They: They take their cues from you, so if you are stressed out…they are going to be, too.  And no worries we’re not here to judge!  Don’t feel like your child being uncooperative reflects badly on you as a parent. We have kids too. Sometimes our little angels are buttheads, but aren’t we all from time to time. 

 Keep a Kid’s Perspective: We understand that they may be uneasy or uncertain. Making all of you comfortable and creating an environment that’s fun is a large part of our job. We can get down to the kid level and chat with them, and that’s how we get great pictures! 

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away. No one’s immune to bribery.”

– Joanne Harris

•  Bribery: It’s not always a bad thing. We all like a little compensation for doing something…especially that we may not want to do. So make time at the end of the session for a reward for a job well done, or have a special candy on hand as a surprise if they need a little extra motivation. We personally love ice cream and we usually know the closest place to get a scoop. 

• Babies and Toddlers: Bring along a favorite toy or stuffed animal that they can hold or that we can put on our camera to get their attention. Their special “thing” can definitely be a source of comfort to help them settle into the session.

• Expect The Unexpected: Let’s face it…not everything is going to go according to plan.  Have a back up outfit ready in case something happens (or someone refuses to wear it) and understand that bloopers are completely normal. In fact, they are part of the fun!  The candids that result are usually some of the best photos of the session.

To sum it all up, Be Prepared, Be Comfortable, and Have Fun! The whole experience is what makes the memories. The photos are there to remind you of the great time you had. We can’t wait to book your family session!