How to get Genuine Smiles at your Family Photos | Photographers in Sacramento

Photographers in Sacramento on how to get genuine smiles at your family photos!

Every parent knows the struggle of getting their kids to smile for photos. Whether it’s for a family portrait or a special occasion, the process can sometimes feel like herding cats. As photographers in Sacramento, we understand the challenges and want to share some tips on making your photo sessions stress-free and fun for everyone involved.

Prepare Them for the Session:

One of the keys to a successful photo session is preparation. Talk to your kids beforehand about what to expect. Explain that it’s going to be a fun and exciting time where they get to show off their personalities. If they have a favorite outfit, let them wear it – feeling comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing can make a huge difference.

Keeping Calm in the Chaos:

Kids are unpredictable, and that’s part of what makes them so endearing. Instead of stressing about every little detail, try to go with the flow. Sometimes the most candid and genuine moments happen when everyone is relaxed. Take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and remember that imperfections can add character to the photos.

Using “Bribes” Creatively:

We’ve all heard of using bribes to get kids to cooperate, but let’s think of them more as creative incentives. Promise them a small treat or a fun activity after the session. This not only gives them something to look forward to but can also serve as a distraction during the shoot. Just be mindful not to make the reward the sole focus; we want those genuine smiles, not forced grins.

Go with the Flow:

Children have a natural ability to be in the moment. Encourage them to express themselves and have fun during the session. If they want to twirl, jump, or make silly faces, let them. These spontaneous moments often result in some of the most memorable and authentic photos.

Let the Photographer Work:

As photographers in Sacramento, our goal is to capture the essence of your family. Trust us to do our job. Rather than trying to orchestrate every smile, let us interact with your kids and create an environment where they feel comfortable being themselves. Sometimes, the magic happens when parents take a step back and allow the photographer to connect with the children.

Genuine Ways to Elicit Smiles:

Instead of relying solely on traditional prompts, encourage laughter by telling jokes, playing games, or engaging in activities your kids love. Genuine smiles come from genuine moments. Capture the joy of a tickle fight, the wonder of exploring a new place, or the shared laughter during a silly story.

When working with photographers in Sacramento, remember that the goal is to create lasting memories, not just perfect poses. Embrace the chaos, find joy in the candid moments, and let your children’s personalities shine through. By preparing them, staying calm, using creative incentives, going with the flow, and trusting the photographer, you’ll not only get beautiful photos but also make the experience enjoyable for everyone involved. After all, the best smiles are the ones that come from the heart.

If you want a the senior portrait experience of your dreams, then contact me, and we will make them all come true!

I have been photographing families for over a decade, and I promise you an experience you won’t get from anyone else!

Alisha Cole is a photographer based in the Greater Sacramento Area, serving Northern California for all your photography needs. She specializes in family, graduates, and maternity photography.  Contact Alisha today!

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