What If The Kids Won’t Want Their Photo Taken?
One of the main worries parents often have over having a family photoshoot is that the kids won’t want their photo taken or might play up during the shoot. This is totally understandable as no one wants to waste their time or money on a photoshoot where their kids either aren’t in the photos or if they are, they look miserable!
Luckily, however, there are ways around this and it doesn’t need to be a worry!
First of all, let me put your mind at ease by letting you know that I am a Mum to three so I have witnessed my fair share of meltdowns, tantrums, stubbornness and even shyness. They are part of what being a kid (and sometimes an adult!) is and totally understandable, especially when a stranger is holding a camera in their face!
Here are a few steps and methods I have to allow for these moments.
I allow plenty of time for the photoshoot.
A family photo shoot is always 1-2 hours. I can generally get all the images I need in 1 hour but allowing this extra hour gives time for anything unexpected or breaks if needed.
The Photoshoot is fun
A photoshoot with me is never a list of commands about how and where to stand, which way to look etc. Instead I incorporate fun games and activities that take the distraction away from the camera while still getting the tender, magical moments between the whole family.
Patience
As I mentioned, I allow time within the photoshoot for comfort or snack breaks and as a Mum myself I know how to have patience with kids who don’t want to cooperate in any way. If a child needs 5 minutes with the camera away to feel comfortable then that is totally fine.
Consider An In Home Shoot
If your child can be shy or nervous then an at home shoot might work best for them. This way they are within their own comforts and toys. I have written a whole post about the benefits of an at home shoot here: Why At-Home Shoots Can Be Better Than Outdoor Shoots.
Alternative Photos
I don’t have a set number or style of photos I aim to get within each shoot. So, if a child is not wanting to play the games or take any cues but instead just wants to hold on to Mum or Dad instead then that’s totally fine. There are generally some ways to still get beautiful images this way too. In fact, these can be some of the best images in a final gallery. The images below are from a shoot where the little girl, Maelie, was teething and Mum and her had been up for most of the night before. Maelie was tired and just wanted cuddles from Mum so that was how we directed the shoot. Maelie did in fact fall asleep for a little nap mid shoot and when she woke up was brighter and feeling more like playing so we were able to get some happier images then.
Worrying that your kids won’t want their photo taken definitely shouldn’t be a reason to not have a family photoshoot. The key is preparing them for the shoot by letting them know what to expect and taking the pressure off yourself for them to be cooperative. A little research into photographers is essential also to make sure they are a great fit for your family.
Free Stuff!
Free PDF: 7 Tips To Take Better Photos Of Your Kids
Some simple but effective tricks and tips to help you take better photos of your kids with your smartphone.