As a mama myself, I completely understand the fear of investing in family photos only to have my kids throw a tantrum the entire time. Trust me, I feel your pain – and I’ve been there! However, I promise you will have fun if you let them run and play! Having a photographer that specializes in family photos can be incredibly helpful as they’ll likely have plenty of games and prompts to create photographable fun and chaos!

As an experienced family photographer, I have put together my top tips for successful family photos with kids to help you and your family have an incredible experience and be obsessed with the end result too!

MAGIC MARSHMALLOWS

Is it bribery? Maybe. But sometimes we do what we need to, right? Having some snacks on hand that your little(s) can get excited about could help us get them through the session!  My favorite is “magic marshmallows” (literally just mini marshmallows) that make you smile when they are eaten!  Kiddos love finding hidden marshmallows in newborn baby’s swaddle or stealing them from mama’s teeth during a kiss!  These are my favorite treat because they are clean and quick to eat!

BRING A FAVORITE TOY

It may be helpful to bring one of your little one’s favorite stuffed animals, lovies, or toys. I may be able to use it to get some smiles and laughs out of them, and it could help them feel more comfortable during the session!

PREPARE THE LITTLES AHEAD OF TIME

I recently heard a friend say that they told their toddler they were going to meet one of mommy’s friends to have fun and play games!  This is perfect!  It takes the unknown out of it for your little one!

If your little one is old enough to understand future plans, let them know about photos a few days leading up to your session. Tell them why the photos are important to your family, and explain that we will get to have some fun playing together! Maybe even consider planning something fun afterward as a treat such as ice cream, a trip to the park, etc. It could help give them something to look forward to once you get through the session!

EMBRACE WHAT YOU ARE GIVEN

One of my best tips when it comes to the best family photos is to let your kids be kids!  Let them run around and play!  Let them dig in the sand or jump on the bed!  Ideally, the first photo we’ll get is the classic “everyone smiling at the camera” family portrait.  Then the fun starts!  

Research your photographer and their style in depth.  If you are looking for a gallery of perfectly posed, everyone looking at the camera smiling type of images, then a photographer with a candid style is not for you!  Very posed photos where everyone is looking at the camera allow for less play – so keep that in mind when choosing your photographer.