How to prepare kids for a family portrait session

I know what you are feeling

Being a mom myself I know just how crazy kids can be and how challenging they can be at times. My daughter is 2 and is a ball of energy and getting her to even sit still is impossible sometimes! So when it comes time to book and plan for a family portrait session I know that it can be stressful. I have complied a few tips that will hopefully help you have the best time possible time.

Plan a relaxing day

One thing to think about is what will the day look like before the your session happens. It might not be the best idea to go out on a long bike ride or something that will tire the kids out. They will show up to the session and will be upset. Planning for relaxing day at home or doing something fun afterwards as a reward can help be helpful for small children.

No empty tummies

I don’t know about you but I am a little, maybe alot, grumpy when I am hungry and I am not in a cooperating state of mind. It is best to have kids that are full and satisfied. Make sure that they are fed before coming to the studio and if needed bring some of their favorite snacks as rewards. Sometimes treats can be useful if a little one is especial against sitting for a photo. 

Explain what will be happening

Sometimes kids can get a little shy around new people. Try to explain what you will be doing. Tell them that they are going to a get there pictures taken and that they will be to a new persons home studio to have them taken. You can even pull up my website home page and show them a picture of me so that I won’t be a complete stranger. This may help them be a little more comfortable.

Let your photographer lead

Do not worry about how your kids will act. I know how toddlers can be and I have worked with a wide range of personalities. I have seen quiet children all the way to the running around and seemingly won’t stay still type of child. I will walk you through the entire shoot and tell you how to pose all the way down to your finger position to get the best shot. There will also be times when this will happen organically and we will get amazing candid, in-between moments. There might even be a time when your child might not want to have anything to do with the shoot and we will let them get comfortable and usually they will eventually give us some child magic to photograph as well as come in for a few shots. 

If you have any other questions or concerns please reach out below in the comments of send me a message!