How to get your older kids to have fun at a family photo session

It seems that most parents have concerns about their kids during a photo session no matter the age. When they are little we are worried about our littles throwing fits or jut being cranky. When they are older we still worry about them being cranky or just not participating at all or giving the photographer a hard time.

We want so badly to have a smooth effortless experience that produces heartfelt images that we will love. I am here to tell you that it is possible to have all that even with your older kids that may be less than enthused to have their picture taken.

Let your kids be themselves

The truth is that there is nothing worse than being a teen and having your parents trying to control your every move. Older kids are trying to come into their own and be there own person. I am a big believer that kids of any age should be 100% themselves at a session.

With lifestyle photography we aren’t trying to showcase your family as something you are not but exactly as you are. My philosophy is that every family is unique, interesting and perfect just they way they are. So we must allow our kids personalities to shine, whether they are shy or outgoing. Giving your kids space to be themselves will make them relaxed and more confident.

Collaboration will help them feel involved

Sometimes older kids don’t want anything to do with a photo session. These can be the awkward years where they may feel self conscience or want to be in control of how they look. Being on the other side of a camera can be really intimidating. (see my last post on how to over come photo session anxiety.)

One thing that I find that gets older kids engaged is collaborating with them. Ask the what they like to do or see if they want to do some stunts. If your kids are dancers then having them do a quick move is a good way to loosen them up and have fun. Asking an older boy to jump off a rock as high as he can, can help get him to have fun.

Lifestyle photography isn’t about stand still and give me the best smile you can. Its about having fun!

Asking them not to smile

One trick that I like to use when doing individual shoots of older kids is to ask them not to smile. We are so conditioned to smile when a camera is in our face that some of us have a go to smile. The stiff get this over with smile. When I as kids not to smile they are often surprised and usually find it so strange and hard to do that they end up laughing.

That is when I get the most genuine smile because it is coming from a genuine laugh. This is a usually sure way to get a really great smily photo of your child.

Approaching every photo session with an open mind and being flexible for each unique family dynamic is so important especially when working with children of all ages. You can have a fun and heartfelt session with your kids no matter their age. Just trust the process and find a photographer that you trust to get the job done.