Preparing your children for our family session
Family pictures are a timeless tradition that helps capture precious memories and milestones. However, convincing kids to cooperate and be at ease during a family photo session can sometimes be a challenge. As a family photographer based in the Niagara Region with years of experience capturing families, I have picked up some tricks for photographing young children. In this blog post, I’m sharing 6 of my favourite tips and tricks with you to help prepare your kids for family pictures!
Talk about the session!
Kids love knowing what to expect going into a new situation. Explain the awesomeness that's about to go down. Tell them it's like a mini-adventure with a friend (that’s me - Brianna!) where they get to be the stars. Share stories about past photo sessions and how much fun they were. Get them excited, so they'll be ready to strike a pose when the time comes!
Play photographer at home!
Turn your living room into a photoshoot practice zone. Hand your kids your smartphone or a toy camera and let them become the photographers. Then, swap roles and take pictures of them snuggling up, tickling each other, jumping, etc. This playful rehearsal allows them to understand the concept and get comfortable with the idea of being in front of a camera.
Ensure they are comfortable!
When deciding what to dress everyone in for your session, keep the littles comfort in mind. It is hard to relax and have fun if you’re dressed in a super stiff, uncomfortable outfit.
Make sure they’re not hangry!
An empty stomach can turn even the sweetest angel into a grumbling monster. Ensure your kiddos are well-fed before the photoshoot. A hearty meal or snack will keep their energy levels up, making them more cooperative during the session. Just be cautious with messy foods; we wouldn't want any spaghetti sauce mishaps on those pristine outfits!
Keep them well-rested!
Think of your kids like little race cars; they need to be well-rested to zoom around the track. Make sure they get a good night's sleep before the big day and try not to skip naps the day of if you can. A well-rested child is a happier, more cooperative one.
Plan a fun post-session activity!
You know what makes an awesome incentive? A yummy treat or activity waiting just around the corner! Promise your kids something exciting once the photos are wrapped up – a trip to the ice cream parlor, a visit to the playground, or maybe even a little movie night. This gives them something to look forward to and keeps the spirits high during the shoot.
So there you have it - 6 easy ways to prep your littles for family pictures! Remember, it's not just about getting the perfect poses; it's about capturing genuine smiles, love, and the bond of your family. No matter how your littles react on the day of, I will capture images full of personality that you are sure to love!
