Ways to Involve Your Kids in the Family Photography Process

Family portraits are something every family should have and should be able to treasure. But I completely understand why some families let several years go by between family photo sessions. There are several reasons, of course, but a common one is the worry that your kids might just be too rambunctious to be able to get good portraits together, or that it’ll be a difficult experience to try to keep them on track.

One of the best ways to get your kids on board with a photo session is to show them that this is something you’re doing with them, not to them. And a great way to do that is to involve them in the process. Here are a few tips that could help your child feel more invested in the process so they can actually enjoy it!

Let Them Pick Their Outfit

Most of us have had schools or jobs where we had to wear a uniform or were required to wear something specific, and it’s not fun, especially for a child who’s learning how to exercise their independence. So when you’re planning your family’s photo shoot outfits, let your kids pick what they want to wear…within reason, of course. I suggest having a couple of outfit options and letting them choose which one they like.

Bring Them to Your Planning Consultation

This is actually something I encourage with every family! I have a planning session with every family before their photo shoot, where we’ll talk about what you want your portraits to look like and discuss all the fun details. Part of the benefit of these sessions is that it gives us a chance to meet in person before your photo shoot, and just as importantly, it gives your kids and I a chance to meet too. They don’t have to be involved in the actual planning discussions, but meeting me in advance can make them feel more comfortable when the photo shoot arrives.

Incorporate a Favorite Game of Theirs in the Photo Shoot

I love getting candid shots of families having fun together, and they become many families’ favorite portraits because of how authentic and heartfelt they are. Your kids can help to inspire some of those candid shots because we can play some of their favorite games during the session. For example, maybe your little one loves it when Dad throws them up in the air and catches them, or maybe they like playing tag. Games like this can make for some wonderful action shots.

Ask Them for Reward Ideas or Post-Photo Activity Ideas

Some parents like to have a carrot to dangle to help their child be cooperative and upbeat during the photo shoot. If rewards work well for your kids, consider asking them what they want as their reward, whether that’s going for ice cream or watching their favorite movie when you get home. Or, rather than framing it as a reward, just let them pick where they want to go for dinner after the photo shoot. Either way, this gives them some agency in the day and something to put them in a good mood.

If you have a little one who likes to get involved and seems to do well when they have ownership in a choice or a situation, these tips could be the perfect way to help your photo shoot go smoothly. Trust me, a wonderful and fun family photo shoot is within reach! Contact Jaimié Birtel Photography and let’s chat!