6 Tips for Making a Photoshoot with Children Easier | Melbourne Newborn and Family Lifestyle Photography
As a mom myself, I am familiar with the anxiety of having your children cooperate for your photo session. Thus, through my experience as family photographer and a mom, I am sharing my top tips for to prepare yourself and your kids for your family session.
Trust me, let go of your worries and all is well.
Tip 1: Let kids be kids
Kids can be so unpredictable isn’t it, I hear you. They can be on their best behaviour one day and feral another. So, during your session, remember to keep a smile on your face and carry on, even if your kids aren't having it and you're fuming on the insides. I know how crazy that sounds, but trust me - I've got this.
No matter what happens, don't let your child's melt down get you down too. I live by the mantra “this shall pass, too”.
Your session isn't the best time to be disciplining your child. Yelling at them to behave and smile or threatening them will not always work. Instead, try to acknowledge their feelings, smile through and try to make your child laugh and have fun.
Just go with it and trust that the photos will be beautiful nevertheless.
Tip 2: Relax, breathe out.
Children are very intuitive, they pick up on your emotions and act up. Thus, if you are relaxed, chances are they will be as well. So let go of the stress and frustrations of getting ready, take big nourishing breaths, who knows, your kids might mirror you and do the same as well!
Focus on the big picture and don’t worry about the small stuffs. If your daughter is wanting to wear an Elsa outfit that you had not planned for, and is having a meltdown because of it, that’s completely ok. If they are happy, you are happy and it will show in photos.
Tip 3 : Be open
Be open to the idea of your session having lots amazing candid photos and organic moments as well as some portraits where everyone’s looking at the camera. In fact, I much prefer the organic documentary moments better than portraits. They show your kids’ character and personalities so much more and most likely you will connect with the candid photos.
Just be open to all sorts of expressions and poses because I will work with whatever your kids are able to do. I have tricks up my sleeve to get them to engage with me. Usually I will get down on to their level, talk to them, give them attention and get them to love me! Most of the time I am able to get them to cooperate…
Tip 4: Snacks and Sleep/Rest
A well rested toddler is most likely going to be happier during your photo session. Try not to schedule so many activities on the day of your session, keep it a relaxing one. If your child naps, try your very best to make sure he or she gets her nap that day. If your children are no longer napping, have a quieter day at home.
Sunset session can start later at 7pm or 8pm in summer, thus the nap will help a lot! Kids are usually happy for the chance to be outdoors playing past their bedtime, don’t stress, it will be a novelty for them. If you have toddlers who is happier in the morning, we can always do a mid morning session.
A happy full tummy makes a happy child! My kids are always snacking constantly, so make sure they are fed before their session and bring mess free snacks for your session.
Tip 5: Reward
If you are ok with offering your kids bribes, treats, it could be a really helpful too! My daughter lights up and tend to cooperate better knowing that her reward of lollies is in the car dashboard waiting for her once our photoshoot is done. If your kids know that at the end of the session, that they get to celebrate with ice cream, they will look forward to it.
Tip 6: Be prepared
It may be a good idea to plan your outfit and your family’s outfits a few days before, so that it’s one less thing to stress about on the day. Happy mom = happy kids!
It's important to dress the kids for the weather. Better to pack that extra knit layer, in case it gets cold at sunset. If you are having a beach session, the wind can wear down the kids as well. Cold kids are tired and whiny! .
I hope that you find these tips handy! If you have yet to book a family session, what’s stopping you?
Click on the button below to organise your next family session!