As a Denver family and portrait photographer, I’ve worked with my fair share of babies and toddlers and want to share some tips on how to make your family photos fun for your kids! I’m a mom of two little boys, and I understand how hard it can be to get a good family photo.
Does this sound familiar? You’re dressed in beautifully coordinated outfits, the golden hour light is shining perfectly, but your kids are not excited about family photos and would rather be doing anything else. Your baby is crying and you’re struggling to keep your toddler from rolling in the dirt in his clean and thoughtfully chosen outfit. Scenarios like this one are the reason why families choose not to invest in photos while their kids are young. It’s also the reason so many moms have photos OF their children, but not WITH their children.
Let me just start by validating you. Parenting littles is HARD work. But, amidst the chaos, there are so many beautiful and tender moments. This season of your life with young children is one you won’t want to forget and it’s worth the effort to take family photos. Here’s how to make your family photos fun for your kids so they actually enjoy the session, and you do too!
1. Have Realistic Expectations
Young kids are often easily distracted, experience big emotions, and would rather play than sit still. Holding onto realistic expectations will help the session go more smoothly. Focus more on capturing the current season of life you’re in, as it is, rather than holding tightly to capturing specific poses.
2. Keep It Playful
If you’re a mom who is hardly ever in the frame with her kids, you might just want ONE photo where EVERYONE is looking and smiling. If that’s you, fear not! We will make time for that. But not every photo needs to be posed. Sometimes, kids need a change of pace, and incorporating play in the session might create some of your favorite photos!
3. Rewards
Don’t forget to pack small treats like M&Ms (or Yum Earth’s Choco Yums if you’re a fellow food allergy parent who needs a safe option). Keep your treats age appropriate and be sure to bring enough so each child can have several throughout the session. (Pro tip: don’t pick something messy!) Your kids don’t need to have a treat after EVERY pose or playful prompt, but it’s important to take little breaks to reward their participation. Rewards can help warm them up to being in front of the camera and encourage continued cooperation!
I hope these tips help you make your next set of family photos fun for your kids (and you)! If you’re looking for a family photographer in Denver, click the inquire button. I love serving Denver families just like yours! To see more from my latest sessions, follow me on social media and subscribe to my email list.
