Capturing beautiful family photos can be a cherished keepsake for years to come, but let's face it – photographing children can sometimes be challenging. As a family photographer, I've worked with countless families and understand the unique dynamics involved in photographing kids. In this blog post, I'll share some valuable tips to help parents prepare their children for a successful photoshoot.
Communication:
One of the most important aspects of preparing kids for a photoshoot is communication. Take the time to explain to your children what to expect during the photoshoot. Let them know that it's a fun opportunity to spend time together as a family and create beautiful memories. Reassure them that there's no need to feel nervous, and encourage them to be themselves.
Setting Expectations:
It's essential to set realistic expectations for the photoshoot, especially for younger children. Let them know that it's okay if they feel shy or silly in front of the camera – the photographer is there to help them feel comfortable and capture their true personalities. Avoid putting pressure on your children to behave a certain way or smile on command.
Keeping Them Engaged:
To help keep children engaged and cooperative during the photoshoot, come prepared with a few activities or games that they enjoy. Bring along their favorite toys, books, or snacks to help keep them entertained between shots. Encourage them to interact with each other naturally, whether it's playing a game of peek-a-boo or sharing a silly joke.
Snack and Rest Breaks:
It's essential to plan for snack and rest breaks during the photoshoot, especially for younger children. Bring along water and light snacks to keep their energy levels up, and don't hesitate to take breaks if they start to feel tired or restless. A quick snack break can help rejuvenate their spirits and ensure they're ready to smile for the camera.
Flexibility is Key:
As much as we may try to plan every detail, it's essential to remain flexible during the photoshoot. Children are unpredictable by nature, and sometimes the best moments happen when we least expect them. Embrace spontaneity and go with the flow, allowing your children to express themselves freely without feeling pressured to pose or perform.
Creating a Positive Atmosphere:
Avoid scolding children during the shoot, as this typically leads to tears, strained smiles, and stress for everyone. When talking to your kids about the session, emphasize that it will be fun! Even on the day of the session, try to remain calm and maintain positive energy. Kids pick up on stress, so it's essential to create a relaxed environment. Encourage children to be happy rather than focusing on looking at the camera and smiling; the goal here is them being comfortable in front of the camera and interacting with you! Avoid mentioning any bribes (such as ice cream or other rewards) before the session. Sometimes, when kids get too excited beforehand, it can actually make it harder for them to cooperate during the session.
Preparing your children for a photoshoot doesn't have to be stressful – with a little preparation and patience, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family. By communicating openly, setting realistic expectations, keeping them engaged, remaining flexible, and creating a positive atmosphere, you can help ensure a successful photoshoot that captures the true essence of your family's bond. If you have any questions or concerns about preparing your children for a photoshoot, don't hesitate to reach out – I'm here to help make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
