Dec 30, 2020 | By: Meghan Hess Photography
Ah, the age ol' question: How do I get kids to do what I want them to do?
When you find the answer, let me know! Until then, here are a few of my tricks that I use during a photo session to get the kids to cooperate.
Full tummies. Most family sessions are scheduled on or near dinner time. This can be a tricky for hungry tummies. If you have plans to go out for dinner afterwards, that's fine BUT give the kids (and dad...) a good healthy snack. They'll need something that won't burn off too quickly. Click here for my Pinterest board with great ideas!
Prepare them. Explain to the family what is going to happen at your family photo session. You can play pretend and have a mock photo shoot. You don't need to use a real camera either! Just mime a camera and make the fun "Click!" sound. Take "photos" of the kids and let them take some of you! You'll have lots of fun pretending and it will give the kids a look into what will happen at the real photo session.
Bribery. I am 100% ok with bribing your children. I do it all the time with my own! Give clear expectations about how you want them to listen & obey. You might need to remind them a few times during the session about how they need to behave in order to receive whatever amazing thing you've offered. Donuts, candy, stickers, hot wheels, trip to the dollar store, stay up late, TWO bedtime stories... Kids are so easy to please!
Rest is best. Naps for everyone! If naptime is still a thing in your home, don't skip it the day before of the day of your session. Well-rested humans are happy humans! Even if naptime isn't a thing in your home, make sure everyone is well rested and has down time beforehand. Save all that energy for a fun photo shoot!
Scare them. "If you don't behave, then x, y, z will happen!" Yikes! Don't make them scared of me! Keep things light and happy.
Get angry. Your children will feed off of your emotions. So, if you're angry or upset, they'll feel it.
Bring a toy or blanket. Unless you're ok with them being in the photos, I would try not to bring those items. Instead, I've had children find "a cool rock" and hold onto that during the session. It's small enough to fit in their hands and be hidden and less obvious than a bright blanket.
I hope you feel less anxious about your next family photo session! This should be a fun time for your family--not a stressful one.
As a Utah family photographer, I adore meeting new families and seeing my repeat families every year. Watching families grow up is so fun!
About the location-
The Great Saltair is perfect for photography. A blank and minimalist background that makes the subjects pop! It compliments basically any outfit choices and color themes.
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