As a mom of two kids, trust me when I tell you that getting kids
ready for a shoot can be qualified as an olympic sport!
So here are a few tips to help you prepare your kids for the photo session and make your session less sporty and more enjoyable!
Keep in mind some are age dependent.
1.Talk about the shoot and what they can expect
Anxiety is the stealer of joy and the last thing we want is for our kids to be scared or nervous. Tell them I am a friend that is going to take pictures for a special gift or something to that effect.
Most important- Tell them the get to play and have fun and will do lots of snuggling with you.
2. Show them pictures of past sessions so they know what they're going to be doing
Kids of all ages LOVE seeing old photos of themselves. If they remember having fun or even if they don't- it can't hurt to show them a previous outcome and how much joy it brought you to have these photos now.
3. Bribery doesn't always work- but can sometimes
You know your kids best so your call on this. I find that lots of times when young kids are bribed, they just focus on what they are going to "get" and want the session to be over so they can have their treat ASAP.
If you know it works for your kid(s); Ice cream after the session is a popular one, but could also be going to their favorite dinner, or even bubbles or stickers after the session are food-free options! For teens/tweens it could be extra down time at home, a hangout with their friends or a trip to their favorite restaurant.
Let me know if I can help in any way. Just make sure they get it after the session, not during.
Tip: I carry bubbles most of the time.
4. Make sure naps/rest are a priority for the little ones that day
As you are very aware, this can make a big difference in their moods! Plan it earlier or later depending on the time of the session.
5. Try on their clothes -✨and shoes ✨- ahead of time
It's best to make sure shoes and clothes fit and aren’t “itchy” or “too tight.”
We want great looking pictures, but if the kids aren't comfortable (or confident) its not going to be fun for anybody 😉
6. FEED them
The last thing we need is for kids to get HANGRY in the middle of their session!
You can also pack some clean snacks in the car on the way! (water, grapes, peanuts, cheese sticks, crackers, fruit snacks). Just
make sure to wipe cheeks and lips off after.
7. Praise, thank, and be proud
There is nothing that our kids want to hear more than how proud we are of them, how great they did, and THANK YOU for doing this for Mom and Dad!
8. Bring PJs if it’s close to bedtime
If your kids will be up later than usual or it will be bedtime when you get home you may consider brining pjs and changing the
kids before heading on back home. This is also great in case they fall asleep in the car.
9. Let Them Be Themselves
Please don’t ask your kids to be on their “best behavior” or constantly tell them to smile at the camera. It puts pressure on them and tends to make them act in ways less desirable. The best photos happen when they’re being themselves—playing, exploring, and interacting with you.
10. Give Them Some Ownership
Older kids (especially ages 6+) tend to do better when they feel like part of the process. Let them pick between two outfit options or help pack a snack. Teens? Don’t force them into anything overly styled or uncomfortable—they’ll look and feel better if they feel like themselves.
11. Set the Tone
Your mood matters. If you’re stressed, rushed, or frustrated, your kids will feel it. Try to stay calm, go with the flow, and remember: this doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be you.
Last but not least...
12. TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER 😁
I’ve photographed a lot of kids and have a few tricks up my sleeve. You don’t need to coach them or constantly redirect. In fact, stepping back a bit and letting me guide the flow usually gets the best results!
