How to Take Better Photos of Your Kids

Mamas, ever try to take a photo of your kiddos laughing and playing and the second they see you pull your phone or camera out the moment is gone? You want to grab a quick shot of your son's adorable smile showcasing his missing front teeth but you get a grimace instead? Or, you want to snap some photos of your daughters in their matching Spring dresses and they want no part in it? Yeah, I've been there too. Way too many times.

If you struggle with getting natural photos of your kids that showcase what you love most about them, keep reading for some tips and tricks!

1. Bring something new and fun to keep their attention Try to keep your kiddos interested by bringing something different or fun to make the photos exciting and to help bring out natural smiles and laughs. Whether you are taking a spur of the moment quick photo on your phone or trying to do a full on photoshoot, keeping it fun and lighthearted is key. Bubbles are great for natural smiles, also fun music helps to bring out some goofy dance moves and big belly laughs. A special flower bouquet for your girlies to sniff and enjoy or a cozy blanket to snuggle up in together are also really fun options.

2. Get Down on Their Level Try to see things through your child's eyes! Get down on her level so that she can show you cool stuff she finds and you can catch the way her eyes sparkle when the sun is shining. Getting down on the same level as your kids also helps to bridge the gap between adult and child. It makes kiddos feel way more comfortable and at ease when someone isn't towering over them (even if it is a parent). By being level with your children you are connecting with them on a deeper level and letting them know that you are interested in what they are doing.

3. Ditch the "Cheese" I know it is a hard habit to break, but if you want a genuine smile from your child do not use the phrase "say cheese." Most kids are familiar with saying cheese and it almost always brings out a stiff and awkward smile instead of the natural one you are hoping for. Instead of instructing "say cheese," try instead to make your child laugh. Suggest tickle fights with siblings, tell jokes, say "hey, who has such stinky feet?" or "show me your silliest face?" Also, try to get your child to do something he enjoys. Ask your son to show you how fast he can run or to bust out his favorite dance move. Ask your daughter to show you how many times she can spin around before getting dizzy or how high she can jump. The smiles you will get from genuine happiness and fun will be way better than the "cheese" smiles.

4. Let Them Play If your kids do not feel like smiling for a photo, don't make them. Snap your photo while they're playing together without any expectation to look and smile. Let them take the lead and choose what they feel like doing while you're there to capture it. Not all photos have to be of your children looking and smiling at the camera. Some of the images you will treasure the most are the ones of your children playing, exploring, adventuring, and just experiencing the magic of childhood.

5. Hire . . . ME!!!

I hope these tips help you the next time you take photos of your kiddos. However, when in doubt, book a session with a professional (me please). A photographer can capture all the best moments while helping to keep it stress free for everyone.