5 Must-Do Photo Tips Parents Need to Know

When it comes to photography, children can be the most exciting subjects.  They can also be the most unpredictable.  Your child could very well be the ideal model on photo day, or you may just not know who this child (or children) is because they’re behaving so terribly. 

As a photographer and mother I have had some experience in dealing with children and photography.  Some love the limelight, some will hate it. Here are my 5 must-do tips that are sure to make your next child or family session a success.

Pick a photographer you trust.  There is a reason this is number one, it’s the make it or break it point! By trust I mean you trust their talent and their style.  You have seen her work and you like…no, LOVE her overall product.  You trust that if you have a conceptual theme or idea she will try her best to recreate that with in her own style (and this you need to be okay with).  You also trust that when you don’t have a specific idea your photographer will produce something as creative and captivating as she has in the past.  This way you guarantee yourself happiness with the end result.

Talk about it ahead of time.  Discuss with your kids (and husband) what your ideas are, when and where you are going to have this photo session.  Let them know that a photographer will be there, what she will be doing, what her name is.  Maybe even show them her website with photos, read her “About me” page together.  The more your kids know, the less surprises and anxiety.  Kids do best when they know what’s coming.  The only surprises allowed?  The ones that your photographer will work into the session for amazing genuine expressions.

Stay relaxed and make it casual.  Kids pick up on parents’ moods like a Swiffer duster! The next best thing you can do for your session is stay relaxed and make this a fun, family activity rather than a painful obligation.  If you get too caught up in your ideal look or specific poses or behaviors, your children will get uptight.  They become afraid of doing it wrong and disappointing you.  Make this a fun experience.  It all starts with your attitude and demeanor. 

Make it fun.  Kids’ photography is about that: kids!  Colorful, fun clothing, accessories, location, they all contribute.  But if you can’t get your child to relax, that’s all you will see in your photos.  Make sure once you arrive at the session, pressure is off and we are all about to have a lot of fun.  In the end you will be glad your main focus (pardon the pun) was on smiles and happy children.

Let go of control.  This is where trust in your photographer really comes into play again.  Let her take over and guide your children and family to accomplish the goal you set out together.  Your photographer will most likely be very experienced in dealing with children and will know just how to get them to do what she wants them to.  Unless your photographer asks you to help her with a child, just stand back and enjoy the process.  You have done a terrific job prepping your children, staying relaxed and making it fun.  Kick your feet up Mom! Time for a break.  

There you have it.  The five basic must-do's when it comes to children and photography.  Now, go out there and make some fabulous photos happen!

Note:  Not all photographers are girls.  I’m a girl.  Hence, the photographer in this article is a girl ;-)

My name is Analia and I specialize in family and high school seniors teens photography in  Eugene, Oregon and the surrounding areas.  If you enjoyed this article please feel free to browse the rest of this website.  You can help spread the word about my work (pretty please) by "liking" my Facebook Page.  You can the receive exclusive offers and updates! You can also follow me on Twitter and Pinterest.