Kids are tough to photograph. I would know I have two boys who can’t seem to sit still for two seconds. They have pretty much had a camera pointed at them from birth. Sometimes they are into it and sometimes not so much. Here are some ways I’ve found to help get the photos you want.

Be Quick

You gotta be quick, like a ninja quick. Don’t take the camera off of them. Keep clicking. Have fun with them. Tell jokes, be silly, laugh, high fives engage with them get down on their level. The most important thing is you have to be patient. Don’t expect too much and go with the flow.

Bribery

Promise them something like ice cream if they cooperate for the photos. Pick an activity they like. You know what motivates your child.

Planning

Get them involved with the planning let them pick out something to wear. Or a themed photoshoot they can wear their favorite costume. This gets them excited and ready for the photos!

Action shots

Running and jumping are great ways for them to show off their personality. It breaks up the photoshoot of having them stand and smile. Waiting for an expression. The expressions come naturally. The not so perfect photos are usually the best anyway.

Show

Show them the back of the camera. They can see for themselves how they look. This gets them involved and engaged to have fun at it. Prompt them by asking them a question or tell them to look a certain way, not at you or the camera. This relaxes them.

I hope these tips help you out, you got this!