Why I Won't Ask Your Kid(s) to Smile for Photos
- rachaelbaileyphoto
- Nov 23, 2022
- 3 min read
Kiddos make super cute subjects for photo shoots and it helps us - as parents - to remember the days when they were so little. They definitely grow up too fast! However, they must. So, why wouldn't we want to capture their innocence when we can?!
These are some things I do during my child photography shoots that help to make them the best they can be
Have you ever tried taking pictures of your kids and when you ask them to smile, it's either this super cheesy and over-the-top smile or a pursed, tight-lipped smile that isn't true to their normal, natural one? That's why I will never ask your kid(s) to smile for photos. It won't be true and genuine to themselves and it generally doesn't get the kind of results you, as a client, are envisioning. Also, we aren't happy all the time. I'm not saying you all have to cry (unless you want to), but more so have some serious images thrown in there to break it up.
A lot of the time, like most people, kids feel awkward when asked to smile on command. We tend to feel like it is forced and it doesn't really show true happiness. I'll be honest, the super structured, stiff, and insanely posed images are not my favorite and therefore aren't the kinds of photos I enjoy taking. Some guidance and slight posing is needed in some instances (otherwise we can't see you in the photo haha). However, going overboard will create outdated photos -- and we want to keep them modern!
How you can help!
Be a goofball!
Get silly! I always - for any shoot, really - try to help you relax and get a little goofy. It helps to bring out your confidence and scare away any doubts you might be feeling. Which is why this method is GREAT for photography with children. Plus, if the adult person who is accompanying the nugget is silly, too, then it eases everyone's nerves and produces some really beautiful and stunning images!
Bring toys/props
Bringing along a favorite toy, blankie, instrument, etc., will help any kid of any age feel more like them. It won't look like themselves if they aren't feeling it. So, bring some stuff that's unique to them! If they like a certain fashion style, have a specific hobby they enjoy, or anything else that pertains to them, bring it along to make their photos more special.
Don't be afraid to start playing
Starting a little game with them can help them loosen up and become more comfortable in the picture. Or bring interactive props such as a large bucket (they can sit in and crawl out of) or things that move (like a wagon). It's also a great way to get some candid shots of you and the little one! Having those 'real' moments will add more depth to your photo set and create more value in those memories when you look back onto the photos.
Regardless, I want you all to have fun! Don't be afraid to get a little "childish" with your kid. Building that relaxed atmosphere will allow you and your little one/ones gain the confidence needed to get some really nice shots. I'm just a fly on the wall!
Want to read more? Check out these other blog posts/articles!
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