Kids are completely unpredictable. They can be so adorable and easy going, laughing uncontrollably one minute, and the next minute, turn that charm off completely. They will typically smile for you all day long until you put them in front of a camera, then they freeze up like a deer in headlights. We want to avoid the gritted teeth and bug-eyed forced smiles during our session. Here are my top tips to help kids smile during a photo session.
How to Get Real, Genuine Smiles From Your Kids
A smile is one thing, but a genuine smile is something completely different! We’ve all seen them. Those photos of kids where they have the most ridiculous “smile” on their face. It’s often the result of someone saying, “say cheese!” And that’s exactly what we don’t want. We want to see those real smiles. The ones that light up their eyes. The ones that fill your heart with warmth every time you see them.
Here are some things you can do to get those smiles:
Think About What Your Child Finds Funny
Make a list of things that your child thinks are funny and send it to me prior to the session. This way, I can be prepared and add these things into my bag of tricks.
Think Of Some Good Icebreakers
Along with a list of what your child finds funny, it’s also helpful to have a list of icebreakers I can use to get a conversation started with them. Tell me the kinds of shows they watch, music they listen to, friends’ names, favorite story, etc. This will give me something to talk to them about, which will help them warm up to me as a person. They may even forget they’re in front of the camera while they chat with me!
Practice Funny Phrases
Practice some funny phrases at home to see which ones evoke the best smiles from your child. (Please, oh please, avoid “Say cheese!” unless that really works for you child). My own daughter gives me the biggest smiles when I start talking about our dog pooping. Is it gross? Yes. Is it a little embarrassing? For me, yes. But does it work? Yes. So I do it, just to get that smile.
Try Out A Couple of Jokes
During the session, I can ask them to tell me a joke and this will typically loosen them up as they tell it to me. I also know a few corny kids jokes and am not afraid to bring them out at a session. Kids usually love telling me all their favorites from school and it really helps to loosen them up.
Prepare Songs
If there is a song that your child loves, load it up to your phone and bring it along with you, or be prepared to sing it for them during the session. You can also let me know what they like ahead of time and I’ll try and have them in my phone, ready to go, as well.
Bring a Bribe
I know, I know. Bribing kids is not where it’s at. But during a photo session, it may be just what you need. Prepare a bribe (such as a toy, a trip to the zoo, etc.) and show it to them, or remind them of it, during the session. You can even bring along non-messy snacks (like goldfish or marshmallows) and we can use them if need be.
Top Tips To Get Kids To Smile During A Photo Session
All of the tips outlined above are tried and true ways to get kids to smile during a photo session. Luckily, I have lots of experience with kids. As a former first grade teacher, I am not afraid to play with and be silly with your kids. These photos are your memories. The moments in your child’s life that will be printed and hung on the wall, or kept forever in a photo album. We want them to be their true selves and the best way to do that is to make sure they are having fun. If you are looking for an experienced Chesapeake photographer, I would be happy to assist! Reach out and let’s chat about your session today.
