How to Help Your Kids Feel Comfortable (and Have Fun!) During a Family Photo Session
Photo by Wray 18 Photography
As a family photographer in Northeast Ohio and a mom, I completely understand the mix of excitement and nerves that comes with scheduling a family photo session for your little ones. It’s so easy to set high, perfect expectations in our minds, imagining everyone smiling, sitting still, and posing perfectly. But the reality is, we’re raising little humans who are still figuring out this big, new world, and sometimes they’re just… kids.
Kids feel everything, your excitement, your stress, and even your pressure. The last thing we want is for your session to feel forced, rushed, or uncomfortable. When you let go of perfection and go with the flow, you’ll find it’s much easier to work with kids and the result is often the most raw, authentic photos filled with laughter, smiles, silly moments, and yes, sometimes even a few tears.
Trust me, there’s a memory behind every one of those genuine moments, and it beats trying to force a pose or moment that leaves everyone frustrated or embarrassed. If you hire a photographer who is a mom like myself, or a seasoned family photographer who has worked with lots of children, we get it and we know how to work with kids in a way that keeps them comfortable and happy.
1. Set Expectations, But Keep It Simple
Before your session, talk with your kids in a calm, positive way. Keep explanations short and fun. For example, you could say, “We’re going to take some family pictures outside today, and you get to play, run, and laugh while we capture those moments.” Avoid telling them they have to behave perfectly because that can create pressure or stress.
Sometimes, showing a few examples of fun family photos with kids can help them see the session as a game rather than a chore.
2. Bring Comfort Items
A favorite toy, blanket, or even a snack can go a long way. Familiar items help kids feel secure and give them something to interact with naturally. I encourage parents to let kids hold or carry something small they love. It often results in the sweetest, candid children’s photography shots.
3. Plan Around Their Mood
If possible, schedule sessions around your child’s natural energy peaks. For many little ones, that’s after a nap and snack. A well-rested, well-fed child is more likely to enjoy the family photography session and engage naturally with their family.
I also like to get all the shots involving the kiddos done first, especially big group shots or more posed shots that require organization, before they lose interest. That way, the most challenging photos are done while everyone is still happy and engaged.
4. Don’t Push Through Uncomfortable Situations
Whether it’s chilly weather, bright sun, or rain, pushing kids past the point of being done rarely helps. Going with the flow, letting them take breaks, play, or just be themselves, creates a much more relaxed session. When you allow kids to set their pace, the session feels natural and the resulting photos are full of genuine smiles, laughter, and even a few silly or emotional moments.
5. Make It Playful
As a mom, I know how much kids respond to play, movement, and silliness. During sessions, I often turn prompts into games. For example, “Who can jump the highest?” “Let’s make silly faces together!” or “Let’s see who can spin in a circle the fastest!”
These small games keep kids laughing, relaxed, and engaged, and parents love seeing authentic, joyful moments captured in kids photography.
6. Relax — Kids Take Their Cue From You
Finally, remember that kids are experts at reading your energy. If you’re stressed or trying to force perfection, they’ll feel it. Take a deep breath, let go of expectations, and enjoy the time together. Some of the most memorable family photos happen when everyone is just comfortable, connected, and having fun.
As both a mom and a family photographer, my goal is to make family photo sessions stress-free, playful, and full of real, heartfelt moments. When kids are comfortable and relaxed, the session flows naturally, and you end up with photos you’ll treasure for years.
Tip: Don’t forget to communicate with your photographer about your child’s likes, quirks, and any special comfort items. It makes the experience smoother and more personal for everyone.
