7 Proven Ways to Keep Kids Happy and Engaged During a Photoshoot

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Man Playing With His Child at an engaging family photoshoot

Hiya!


Let’s be real – capturing the perfect family photo with kids can feel like herding cats, right? But it doesn’t have to be stressful or chaotic. In this blog, I’ll share 7 proven ways to keep kids happy and engaged during a photoshoot. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a toolkit of tips and tricks that will make the next family photoshoot not only successful but fun! You’ll also learn how to make kids smile for pictures, keep them entertained, and capture their natural joy.

Whether you’re planning your first family photoshoot with kids or looking to upgrade your approach, these ideas will make the process stress-free and enjoyable for everyone. So grab a cup of tea (or coffee, depending on how much energy you need!), and let’s dive in!

Why Kids Don’t Sit Still for Photos (And How to Fix It)


We’ve all been there. You’ve got your kids dressed in their cutest outfits, and they just won’t sit still. The thing is, kids aren’t wired to stay in one place for long. They want to explore, play, and move! So instead of fighting their energy, let’s use it to our advantage.

activities what you can do when kids don't sit still for photos

Here’s what you can do:

  • Turn it into a game: Make the photoshoot playful! Engaging children in photoshoots is so much easier when they feel like they’re playing rather than posing.
  • Let them move: Try action shots where they can run, jump, or twirl. These moments often capture the most authentic smiles and joy. 📸
  • Keep it short: For younger kids, shorter, more frequent breaks work wonders. This way, they don’t get tired, and you can capture their best moments.

By understanding that it’s normal for kids to fidget, you can approach the session with more patience and creativity. One of the best ways to keep kids entertained during photos is to embrace the chaos and go with the flow.

little sister having fun with the newborn baby on a bristol family photo session

3 Fun Games to Keep Children Smiling Throughout the Session


If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that fun equals success when photographing kids. Kids don’t want to be told to smile – they want to feel happy. The secret is in making the photoshoot itself a joyful experience.

fun games to keep children smiling throughout the family photo session

Here are three tried-and-tested games that work every time:

  1. Peek-a-Boo: Works wonders with toddlers! This is one of my top tips for photographing toddlers, as it always results in genuine giggles.
  2. Simon Says: Turn the photoshoot into a game of Simon Says, where “Simon says smile!” or “Simon says jump!” It’s a great way to get fun, candid moments.
  3. Silly Faces Contest: Challenge the kids to make their silliest faces. You’ll get both hilarious shots and fantastic reactions when they burst into laughter.

These games are all about creating natural smiles and laughter – perfect for capturing those real moments.

games to play with toddlers to engage on their family photoshoot

How to Keep Kids Happy and Engaged During a Photoshoot (Without Stressing Yourself Out)


Now, I know you might be thinking, “This all sounds great, but how do I actually do it without losing my mind?” The answer is preparation, flexibility, and a little bit of magic.

Here’s how to photograph kids naturally without the stress:

  • Be flexible: Don’t expect perfection. Some of the best family photography session tips revolve around letting things unfold naturally.
  • Bring comfort items: Familiar toys or a favourite blanket can keep kids grounded and happy during the session.
  • Plan around naps and meals: This is one of the simplest child photography tips, but it’s also one of the most important. A well-fed, well-rested child is much more likely to cooperate.

It’s all about setting the scene for a relaxed, enjoyable experience. When you’re not stressed, your kids won’t be either!

a boy is screaming on a Christmas family photo session

5 Simple Tips to Capture Natural, Candid Moments with Kids


If you’re after those beautiful, candid shots that capture your kids’ true spirit, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Let them be themselves: Let them explore their environment and interact with the things around them.
  2. Focus on the in-between moments: Often, the best photos happen in between the poses – the giggles, the little looks, the spontaneous hugs.
  3. Stay low: Get down to their level for a more personal perspective. This works wonders for making photoshoots fun for kids and adds a natural feel to the images.
  4. Capture interaction: If you’re doing a family photo session with children, encourage family members to play and talk to the kids. These interactions always create warm, heartfelt images.
  5. Go for golden hour: The soft, warm light of the golden hour makes everyone look good – kids included!

These natural family photography tips are all about making photos that reflect who your kids truly are, without forcing them into stiff poses.

golden hour family photosession in the woods

What to Bring: The 5 Must-Have Items for a Kid-Friendly Photoshoot


Preparation is key when it comes to keeping your kids engaged during the session. Here’s a quick list of essentials to bring along:

  • Snacks: Always a lifesaver, especially when kids get a bit tired or hungry. 🍪
  • Favourite toys: These can help to comfort kids and double up as props for the shoot.
  • Extra clothes: Kids and dirt are best friends, so having a backup outfit is a smart idea.
  • Blankets: Perfect for sitting on or keeping kids warm during outdoor shoots.
  • Water: Hydration is important, especially for outdoor sessions!

Having these essentials on hand makes for a stress-free family photoshoot with kids, keeping everyone comfortable and happy.

Happy Family Looking at the Camera at a stress-free family photoshoot at home

How Long Should a Photoshoot with Kids Last?


Timing is everything when it comes to a family photoshoot with kids. You don’t want to push their limits, or you risk losing their cooperation entirely.

Here are some time-tested guidelines:

  • Short and sweet: For younger kids, aim for around 30-45 minutes.
  • Older kids can handle more: If your kids are a bit older, you can stretch the session to an hour or so.
  • Breaks are your friend: Don’t hesitate to take breaks, especially for snacks or just a bit of playtime. It can make all the difference in keeping your kids happy and engaged during the shoot.

Knowing how to get kids to cooperate during a photoshoot often comes down to balancing timing with patience.

family photos at a newborn baby photosession at home in Bristol

Use These 3 Tricks to Turn a Child’s Energy into Great Photos


Rather than trying to calm energetic kids, embrace their energy! Here’s how to photograph children naturally by capturing their energy in action:

  1. Running games: Encourage them to run towards you. This creates dynamic, exciting images.
  2. Jumping shots: Kids love to jump – it’s fun, and the photos are always lively and full of joy.
  3. Dance it out: Pop on their favourite song and let them dance. You’ll get some of the most joyful, carefree images this way.

These are some of the best ways to keep kids entertained during photos while making sure their energy is captured beautifully.

tricks to turn a child's energy into great photos

5 Creative Pose Ideas for Kids That Always Work


Posing kids can be tricky, but these five poses never fail:

  1. The cuddle pose: Kids hugging their parents or siblings is always heartwarming.
  2. Looking away: Sometimes, the best photos happen when the kids aren’t even looking at the camera.
  3. Piggyback rides: Great for adding a playful, interactive element to the shoot.
  4. Whispering secrets: Ask the kids to whisper a “secret” to one another – the giggles that follow are always pure gold.
  5. Holding hands while walking: Simple, but effective. It’s a lovely way to capture movement and connection.

These best poses for kids photoshoot will help you get natural, beautiful shots every time.

emotional moments between the bride and her son at a bristol wedding

The Best Time of Day for a Family Photoshoot with Children


Choosing the right time of day can make or break a photoshoot. Here’s when to schedule it:

  • Morning magic: Kids are usually freshest and happiest in the morning.
  • Golden hour: For those magical, glowing photos, aim for the last hour before sunset. 🌅

Scheduling the session when kids are at their best is one of the easiest photoshoot tips for kids that can lead to great results.

How to Reward Kids After a Photoshoot (Without Bribing Them)


Positive reinforcement works wonders after a photoshoot, but you don’t have to rely on sugary treats. Here’s how to reward kids for cooperating:

  • Praise: Let them know how great they did! Kids love hearing that they were amazing.
  • Small toy: A little gift at the end can be a nice surprise without feeling like a bribe.
  • Fun activity: Promise something fun afterward – maybe a trip to the playground or an ice cream outing. 🍦

These tips for family photos with young kids ensure they leave the session feeling proud and happy.

newborn photography bristol

A successful family photoshoot with kids isn’t about perfect poses or staying still for hours. It’s about embracing the energy, the laughter, and even the chaos to capture those genuine, heartfelt moments. With these kids photoshoot tips, you’ve got everything you need to keep your little ones happy, engaged, and having fun throughout the session.

Remember, preparation is key. Bringing the right tools – whether it’s a favourite toy, snacks, or just a playful attitude – will help make the experience memorable for the right reasons. From creative pose ideas to tips on how to photograph kids naturally, you now know how to get kids to cooperate during a photoshoot and turn those moments into beautiful images.

Ready to Book Your Session?

So, are you feeling ready for your next family photoshoot? Now that you’ve got all the tools, tricks, and kid photo shoot ideas to keep the experience stress-free and fun, it’s time to finish strong with your photos that will last a lifetime. Capturing those real, wild, funny moments is what it’s all about, and with these family photography session tips, you’re ready to make the experience enjoyable for everyone—kids included!

👉 Book your family session today and let’s turn your family’s wild, wonderful moments into photos you’ll treasure forever.

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