We all know getting kids to sit still and smile for family photos can feel like magic – but it doesn’t have to! For many families, the thought of capturing a joyful, relaxed photo session with kids can feel like a tall order. But when kids are genuinely enjoying themselves, those real smiles and little bursts of laughter create the most memorable, authentic photos. These are the moments that bring life to a family album – moments you’ll want to look back on year after year.
As an Essex family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right approach can turn even the busiest of little ones into willing participants. With a few simple tips, you can make your family session feel natural and stress-free, allowing space for the beautiful connections that make your family so unique. Here are five tried-and-true tips to make your next family session easy, joyful, and full of memories you'll cherish.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Keep it Fun and Positive
Tip number one for an easy photo session with kids, keep it fun and positive! Kids pick up on emotions quickly, so the more upbeat and relaxed you are, your kids are more likely to do the same. Approach the session like an adventure or playtime instead of a formal event. Use games, jokes, or even little rewards to keep spirits high—this will help create authentic, joyful moments that you’ll cherish forever!
Be Prepared - Snacks + Water
We’ve all felt the effects of being “hangry” before—it’s no fun! The last thing anyone wants is for hunger to sneak up on the kids or even on Dad in the middle of family photos. Bringing snacks and water is a small but powerful way to keep everyone happy and energized, setting the stage for a smooth, enjoyable session. Simple, mess-free snacks like apple slices, fruit snacks, or pretzels are perfect choices that kids love and won’t create any sticky situations. A quick snack break can turn moods around, allowing us to get back to capturing those sweet, natural smiles. Taking this little bit of preparation means everyone stays comfortable and ready to create memories together.
Forget Pinterest
I love Pinterest! It’s my go-to for finding new recipes, arts and crafts projects for my little one, and, of course, posing inspiration for family photos. But Pinterest is just that, inspiration! When it comes to your family session, I encourage you to think of Pinterest as a source of inspiration, not a rulebook. Your little ones are full of their own energy and joy—they’re more interested in running around and having fun than in recreating another family’s photo. Bring along your favorite Pinterest ideas if you’d like, but let’s let those ideas evolve naturally to reflect your family’s unique personality. When we let go of the need to “match” a perfect photo, we open up space for laughter, play, and real moments that capture the beautiful essence of your family.
Talk With Them
In the days leading up to your family session, take a little time to talk with your kids about the fun you’ll all have together. Share how happy family photos make you and how excited you are to see the new pictures up on the walls, capturing moments you’ll cherish forever. Walk around the house with them, let them pick spots where they think a family photo, or maybe a special one of just them, would look great. These simple conversations can do wonders for their self-esteem, helping them feel involved and valued. In fact, research shows that displaying family photos at home can boost children’s confidence and self-worth, reminding them of the strong bond they have with their family. When kids know their photos will be treasured, they feel even more special, making the session not just fun but deeply meaningful for them.
Don’t Lose Your Cool
Remaining patient during your family session is so important—and yes, this is often easier said than done! If you’ve spent the week building up the excitement, telling your kids about the fun you’ll have, it can be frustrating to feel things go off-track just 15 minutes in. But remember, your kids want to have fun, and more than anything, they want to have fun with you! Kids are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on energy in a flash. Staying calm and patient sets a peaceful, reassuring tone for everyone, allowing kids to be themselves. Expect a few wiggles, giggles, or even the occasional meltdown, and just roll with it! Trust that your favorite Essex Family Photographer is still going to capture beautiful moments. Photographing kids is all about capturing real moments, and sometimes the most precious photos come from comforting those little meltdowns. Avoid showing frustration or stress, which can easily lead to tears, as it’s much harder to bounce back after that. Embrace the moments as they unfold, knowing that your patience is the secret ingredient to a truly meaningful, joyful session.
5 Tips for Easy Photo Sessions With Kids
In the end, family photos are about so much more than capturing perfect poses—they’re about embracing the joyful chaos, the giggles, and the real, beautiful moments that make your family unique. As your Essex family photographer, my goal is to make your session relaxed, fun, and full of memories you'll treasure and with these tips I know that we can capture some beautiful memories together. Your images will reflect the love, connection, and all the little details that make your family so special.
Ready to capture those moments together? Let’s make it happen! Book your family session today, and let’s create timeless images you’ll proudly display for years to come.
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Zee Gunchev is an Essex family and newborn photographer with years of experience in the lifestyle photography area. She focuses on capturing genuine moments in soft, dreamy tones and natural light to be savoured for years to come. Her timeless images and effortless style are chosen by many Essex families to document important milestones and life stages.
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