I know there probably have been times you are standing in the middle of a session with a fake smile on your face and wondering what you should do with your hands. You are probably used to the “look at the camera and smile” photos or expecting the photographer to tell each member of your family the exact position to pose in.
Let’s go over some tips to guide you through a less dreadful photo session with your family. I promise if you implement these tips you will leave your photo session having formed new connections with your loved ones and have a beautiful gallery of so many precious moments captured.
So let’s get started with my number one rule – always be TOUCHING someone.
Touch. Touch. Touch.
Physical touch is the best way to convey love through a photograph – and you love your family, right?! Start with how you normally show love whether it’s cuddling up with your partner in an embrace like you do when they wash dishes or cook, holding your child’s hand while walking, or even simply giving a back scratch.
Think about what you do when you are just hanging out. Have your kids sit on your lap and tell them a story, your favorite thing about them, or sing their favorite song to them. Fix someone’s clothing or hair for them. If the kids just want to do their own thing anchor in with your spouse and watch the kiddos explore their surroundings.
Play & Move
Simple movements like cupping someone’s face, giving a kiss on the forehead, or putting your foreheads together and closing your eyes can bring out tender moments. Let’s add some play and laughter in the mix! Kids especially littles ones might have some energy they need to release and the best way to do that with a smile on their face is to play some games and move around.
You can do the airplane with your youngest or even with your spouse! Give a piggy back ride or put someone on your shoulders. Give somebody a twirl and then bring them in close for a hug and kiss on the forehead. Dance like nobody is watching. Play ring around the rosie or use a blanket and play parachute. Tickle someone or play simon says to get the kids in a listening mode and calm them down a bit.
Get on their level
How many times a day do you hear, “ Mom! Dad! Look at me!” Kids love it when they get attention from their parents. They love it even more when you get down on their level and see the world through their eyes. Lay down and cuddle like you’re in bed. Crouch down and ask them about the rock they just picked up or the flower they just picked.
They will leave the session with their attention buckets so full and you will have some photos of authentic smiles without you just standing there looking awkward with a fake smile on your face.
Let's Recap
- ALWAYS be touching someone
- Play games
- Get down on your kids level
