5 Tips to Help Your Kids Love Family Photos (Yes, Even Toddlers!)
Ah, family photos. Amazing to have, lots of work to prepare for.
Yes, they can be. But as a Buffalo family photographer that has photographed lots of families, I’m here to tell you, they don’t have to be as stressful as you might think. A big concern for many parents is that their kids won’t cooperate during their photo session. And frankly, sometimes they don’t! Sometimes they run around, play with rocks, fall on the ground and get their adorable outfits dirty.
BUT! This is all ok. The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is for you to have memories that feel like your life in this moment. And kids being kids is all part of the deal.
That being said, there are some things you can do to help the session run more smoothly and make it a fun experience for your kids and whole family!
Here are five tips from your go-to Buffalo family photographer to help make family photo sessions fun for your little ones:
Adults, keep that smile on. I say this a lot, but it’s super important, so it’s worth saying. Parents tend to worry and try to get their kids to behave (which I completely understand, we all do this as parents). However, kids will be kids. They look cute doing things that we adults would look…well, not cute doing.
So just keep smiling at your kids, like you’re having the best day ever and aren’t the slightest bit stressed out watching your toddler play with a weed and not look at the camera. It might not feel like it, but I promise it makes for amazing photos.
Watching your kids just be themselves and you enjoying it makes for incredible and emotive photos that will make you feel things later on, when this stage of life is fuzzy.
Pick outfits you love—but make sure your kids are comfortable in them. As a Buffalo family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how itchy tags or too-tight shoes can tank a child’s mood. If they’re comfy, they’re more likely to be happy, playful, and relaxed. Think soft fabrics, layers that move well, and styles that reflect their personality.
Bring snacks, but make sure they’re dry and non-messy. I’m all for a good bribe. Sometimes it’s just necessary in parenting. Just make sure it’s something that won’t spill on their clothes. M&Ms, goldfish, Pez, crackers, anything that they like that isn’t super sticky or messy are great options.
Tell them what to expect ahead of time. I know I like to know what’s going to happen and kids do too. So let them know that your family will be having a photographer take pictures of you. You’ll be smiling, hugging, tickling, kissing, and even doing some running and playing.
Do your best to stay calm. I know this one is easier said than done sometimes, especially when you’re trying to get your entire family photo-ready. It can be stressful and you’re sweating, running around, trying not to be late while remembering all the things. It’s a lot.
Kids can feel their parents’ energy so easily. If you’re stressed, they will likely be picking up on that. If it’s possible, do what you can to make the day low-key and easygoing. Have your outfits ready to go. (And reach out to me if you need help - I’m ALWAYS happy to assist with outfit selection - you can even text or email me photos of what you’re thinking of).
I hope these tips help make things a little easier or at least help you feel a little less stressed about your family photo session. As a Buffalo family photographer who’s photographed countless toddlers, teens, and every age in between, I promise—if we embrace the chaos and lean into the joy, we’ll create something beautiful together.
With a little prep and a lot of going with the flow, family sessions can truly be a fun time for all! If you’re ready to chat about a session, click HERE to contact me and get started!
