5 Tips For Getting Kids To Smile Naturally During a Photoshoot

I’ve had more than one worried mom let me know her kids aren’t the ‘easiest’ or never sit still. They are concerned about scheduling a photo session and wonder if they will get any photos they love. Don’t worry! I always have tricks up my sleeve. I have been a Boca Raton photographer since 2011 and I’ve got this! Here are 5 tips for getting kids to smile naturally during a photoshoot.

1. Say Something Silly:

When it comes to toddlers this is my go to. I rattle off mixed up animal sounds or sing the Alphabet all out of order. Making funny faces often do it too. The kiddos cannot believe how silly I am and the smiles come rolling on in.

2. Play Games:

This is a big one for me. I have different games I play with different ages and family dynamics. But every one of my family photo sessions will have games being played. Whether it is a game of red light green light, tag, imaginary airplane flying, or broken telephone we all have a blast!

Kids smiling narurally during a photoshoot

3. Tickles

Tickles often garner adorable smiles and giggles. With the littlest ones I may have parents tickle their babies and run out of the shot. When it comes to families I may have everyone tickle each other. For elementary age siblings I find it fun to tell them no matter what they are NOT to tickle each other. Then wait to see what happens 🙂

4. Peek-A-Boo

I love playing peek-a-boo with little ones. It’s a great way to connect with babies who are not very smiley. With Toddlers Peek-A-Boo turns into Hide-And-Go-Seek. This works especially well if there are trees and high fields to hide in.

5. Let Them Be Kids:

The best tip I can give is to let kids be kids. If you try to keep little ones still for too long you will get the opposite of smiles. Keep them moving around, being goofy, and curious and the smiles you get will be their authentic natural smiles.