How to get your kids to behave for their photo session. - Vancouver, WA/Portland, OR Child Photographer

I’m here to give you all the answers so your children will be little angles during their photo session. Just kidding, the truth is kids will be kids. There is no magic elixir for perfectly behaved children. If there was I would have bottled it and be the richest person in the world right now. I’m not and I just have some practical advice to help things go smoothly.

If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session. 

1. Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it into a bun because she won't sit still. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff. 

2. Make it fun. Let the kids have a couple “fun pictures” where they get to pick their own pose or props. You get to keep the more serious photos while they get to keep their silly photos. This way everyone wins.  If you are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm. 

3. Be prepared.  Ensure that your children are well rested and have had their nap if they still take one. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If you are having your own photos taken too then you might want to bring a babysitter or family member along to watch the kids. If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues, or a first aid kit so bring that along too.

4. Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and your photos will look fantastic. 

5.  Have a chat. Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions.

If you follow some of this advice you will be way ahead of the game. If you want to know more just reach out.