Start Talking About It Early (Like, a Week or Two Ahead)


Don't spring it on them the morning of. Kids hate surprises, especially ones involving "standing still and smiling."


  • Keep it positive and fun: Say something like, "We're gonna meet up with a photographer friend at the park and just play around while they take some pictures of us being goofy together." No "behave" or "smile big" talks.


  • For little ones: Show them photos from past sessions (mine or others) or my website so they see what it looks like. "Look, this family is running and laughing, that's gonna be us!"


  • For older kids/teens: Explain why it's cool, "These are the pics we'll look back on in 10 years and laugh about how tiny you were."


This helps build excitement instead of dread.

Get Them Rested, Fed, and Comfortable



Hangry or tired kids = little to no smiles.


  • Schedule around naps/mealtimes: Aim for right after lunch or snack time, not right before.


  • Pack snacks (non-messy ones, Goldfish, fruit pouches, nothing chocolatey that stains outfits).


  • Bring extras: Change of clothes (in case of spills/mud, Michigan weather, am I right?), favorite toy/blanket for comfort, water bottles.


  • Dress them in what they actually like wearing. If your kid hates stiff collars or itchy fabrics, change it. Cozy, coordinated outfits that let them move win every time.


Play It Up as Fun, Not a Performance


The biggest secret? Make it feel like playtime!


  • Practice silly faces, hugs, or "run toward me" games at home a few days before so they're not awkward in front of the camera.


  • Tell them there are no "bad" pictures, we're just capturing real moments. If they want to make funny faces or run around, cool, those often turn into the favorites!


  • Bring incentives if needed, a small treat or park playtime afterward (but frame it as a "fun reward", not a "bribe for good behavior").


As the photographer, I'll guide the energy with games, tickles, animal noises, or whatever gets genuine smiles! Show up relaxed, kids pick up on your stress.

Share the Deets with Your Photographer


The more I know ahead of time, the better I can tailor things.


  • Tell me about personalities: Who's shy? Who's the wild one? Any fears (loud noises, strangers, bugs)?


  • Favorites: Toys, songs, games, colors, I'll weave those in to make them comfortable.


  • Any must-haves: Specific poses, sibling shots, or "we always do this silly thing."


This helps me connect fast, so the session flows naturally.


On the Day: Relax and Let It Happen


Your job? Enjoy being with your family. Mine? Capture it.


  • Stay positive, no yelling "smile!" or "look here!" Let me handle directions.


  • If things go sideways (they will sometimes), roll with it. A laughing meltdown or a kid wandering off often leads to the most authentic, heart-melting shots.


  • After: Print a few favorites right away or make a quick slideshow; kids love seeing themselves, and it reinforces "that was fun!"

Bottom line


Family photos aren't about perfect poses, they're about freezing the chaos and love of right now. With a bit of prep, your kids will show up happy, and you'll walk away with images you'll treasure forever.


Ready to book a spring session in Grand Rapids? Spots fill up fast once the snow's gone. Drop me a message or check my site, let's make some memories!