Little Ones, Big Smiles: How to keep children happy during a photo session

“Because kids have short attention spans, we capture their magic first—so those busy little brains can relax while the rest of the session unfolds.”

One of my favorite moments behind the camera is catching that pure, unfiltered joy on a little one’s face. Of course, not every session goes perfectly—and that’s absolutely okay. Wiggly kids, shy smiles, and unexpected giggles are all part of the magic. I work closely with parents and guardians to create a space that feels safe, fun, and stress-free for everyone—big and small—so we can capture those authentic moments you’ll treasure forever.

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The easiest way to keep little ones happy in front of the camera? Start with the basics. Make sure they’ve had a full nap and try to keep them awake on the ride over—those catnaps can ruin the magic. Pack a clear drink (because modeling is thirsty work!) and give everyone a quick snack beforehand. A well-rested, well-fed kid is a camera-ready kid, and that means a smoother, stress-free session for the whole family.

Everyone relax—

It’s supposed to be fun!The best photos happen when you let go of the pressure and simply enjoy the moment. Breathe, laugh, and trust that I’ve got the details covered. Your only job is to show up, love on your people, and let the magic unfold naturally.

Don’t get frustrated or embarrassed—real life is where the best memories hide.Kids wiggle, adults blink, someone trips over a boot… and that’s exactly what makes your photos uniquely yours. I’ll guide the session so you can relax, laugh it off, and let those perfectly imperfect moments shine.

If you come ready to enjoy the experience and prep your little one ahead of time, I’ll bring the fun! Think sing-alongs, clapping games, bubbles, and plenty of silly antics to keep those smiles coming. Together, we’ll turn your session into a playdate—and capture every joyful moment along the way.

And when all else fails, a little harmless bribery works wonders. A promised treat, a favorite snack, or a small reward can turn frowns into giggles in seconds—and there’s no shame in that game. After all, happy kids make the best photos, and everyone walks away smiling.