When it comes to family portraits, most parents’ number one concern is how to get their kids to pose and cooperate during the shoot. Let’s face it — trying to get everyone in the family to look at the camera and smile at the same time can feel like an impossible task! But the good news is, it’s not something you need to stress about. With a little bit of planning and a few simple tips, you can help prepare your young ones for their big day in front of the camera and make the experience enjoyable for everyone — whether it’s for family portraits, birthday pictures, or just capturing some fun memories together.

1. Scheduling is Key for Kids

One of the best ways to ensure a smooth photoshoot is to plan it around your child’s schedule. If your little one is still in a nap phase, try to schedule the shoot after they’ve had a good rest. Avoid scheduling it during mealtime or right before their usual nap time — a well-rested, fed child is a happy child. When kids are cranky or overtired, they may not cooperate as well, and that’s when the stress starts to build. By timing the shoot right, you can set your family up for success and ensure everyone is in the best mood possible!

2. Make It a Big Deal

You want your kids to be excited about the shoot, so don’t keep it a secret! Let them know about it in advance so they can look forward to the day. Make it into a special occasion by talking it up and building some excitement. You can even let them pick out their outfits or give them a sneak peek of the fun things you have planned for afterward. Maybe even offer a special treat after the shoot, like their favorite snack or a fun outing. The more excited and involved they feel, the more enthusiastic they’ll be when it’s time to snap those photos.

3. Bribes (Yes, They Work!)

Let’s be honest — we’ve all used a little bribe here and there to get kids to cooperate. While it’s not a parenting tactic you want to rely on all the time, it can work wonders during a photoshoot. A small piece of candy, a sticker, or an extra 10 minutes of screen time after the shoot can be just the incentive your kids need to make it through the session with a smile. It doesn’t have to be anything big — just a little reward for being awesome during the shoot can keep things stress-free and help avoid any meltdowns or tantrums.

4. Let the Photographer Take the Lead with You Kids

It’s natural for parents to want to give their kids directions during the shoot — adjusting their clothing, asking them to smile or sit a certain way, or telling them to “look at the camera!” But the reality is, this can distract kids and make them more likely to ignore your instructions. Instead, let your photographer take charge and give your children the directions. Kids tend to listen better to another adult, so you can relax and focus on looking good in the photos while the photographer guides your little ones into the perfect poses. This allows everyone to stay relaxed, and it helps you get the best possible shots.

5. Enjoy the Experience

Sure, you want every shot to be picture-perfect, but the key to a successful photoshoot is to enjoy the moment with your family. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to have the “perfect” family portrait. Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones that don’t seem perfect at all — like a candid giggle, a spontaneous hug, or an unexpected funny face. Focus on enjoying the experience and creating memories, rather than stressing over every little detail. The more fun you’re having, the more your kids will enjoy themselves too, and that will translate into natural, beautiful photos that truly capture the essence of your family.

With these simple tips, you can make your family photoshoot fun and stress-free for everyone involved. At Alabaster Photos, I specialize in capturing those precious, fleeting moments with your children — whether it’s a playful family portrait, a birthday celebration, or just a special day. Let me help you create beautiful memories that you and your kids will cherish for years to come.

Reach out today to schedule your family session, and let’s make your photo experience as joyful and stress-free as possible!