How to Make Family Photos Fun for Kids – Tips for keeping little ones engaged and happy during the session
If you have ever tried to photograph children, you will know they are not always willing participants. They might get bored, restless, or suddenly decide running in the opposite direction is far more entertaining than standing still and smiling at the camera! But here is the good news, with the right approach, family photo shoots can actually become a fun experience for your kids rather than a battle of wills. In this blog, I will share my favourite tried and tested tips on how to make family photos fun for kids, so that everyone leaves the session smiling (yes, even the grown ups).
1. Let Them Be Themselves
Children thrive when they do not feel pressured. Instead of insisting on stiff poses or perfect smiles, let your little ones be themselves. A genuine laugh, a silly face, or a spontaneous cuddle often makes for the best photographs. When you are thinking about how to make family photos fun for kids, remember that playfulness beats perfection every time.
2. Choose a Familiar and Comfortable Location
Kids feel more relaxed in places they know. Whether it is your favourite local park, a beach they love, forest walk or even your own back garden, familiar surroundings give children the confidence to just be themselves. That is why many of my family portrait sessions take place outdoors in spaces children are comfortable exploring. When children are happy in their environment, the photos naturally feel more relaxed and authentic.
3. Bring Snacks and Take Breaks
We all know kids can go from angelic to hangry in seconds! Keeping a few small, mess free snacks and drinks on hand can help maintain their energy levels. Allowing short breaks also makes the session feel less overwhelming and more enjoyable. A quick snack stop can be the difference between a grumpy pout and a glowing smile.
4. Turn It Into a Game
The secret to how to make family photos fun for kids is often as simple as turning the session into a game. Asking children to race each other, play peekaboo, or even jump in the air for a “silly shot” keeps them engaged and excited. You could also pretend to be airplanes with arms outstretched, see who can give the biggest tickles, or enjoy shoulder rides for extra giggles. Little ones often love being thrown gently up in the air or held upside down too, and those moments make for amazing action shots. These playful activities help capture genuine expressions and give kids something to look forward to instead of “just standing still.”
5. Let Them Have a Say
Kids love feeling involved, so why not let them choose a prop, a favourite toy, or even suggest a silly pose? Giving them a role in the session helps them feel in control, which keeps spirits high.
6. Keep It Short and Sweet
Children have limited attention spans, so dragging a session out for hours is not realistic. I plan my family shoots to be relaxed but efficient, so we capture everything we need without overdoing it. A shorter, fun filled session keeps kids engaged while still giving you a beautiful variety of photographs.
7. Celebrate the Little Moments
The most meaningful photos often come from small, candid moments, a hand hold, a tickle, or a burst of laughter. Do not stress if your child is not giving a picture perfect smile. Those little quirks and natural expressions are the ones you will treasure for years to come.
8. Get Them Involved
Another great way to make your session enjoyable is to let kids see themselves on the camera screen. Showing them the back of the camera lets them watch how they look and often sparks giggles, funny faces, or silly poses. When children feel included in the process, they feel more in control and proud of their photos, which keeps them happy and engaged throughout the session. This is a simple, fun way to keep kids interested and excited while capturing authentic smiles.
FAQs About Family Photo Sessions with Kids
What if my child refuses to cooperate during the session?
This is completely normal and happens far more often than parents expect. The key is not to force it. Children usually warm up naturally once they start playing, exploring, and realising the session is actually fun.
A relaxed photographer (that is me!) who is used to working with children can quickly turn things around with games and gentle encouragement.
What is the best age for family photos?
There really is no perfect age. Every stage of childhood brings its own magic. Toddlers bring energy and curiosity, while older children often love getting involved with the session.
The most important thing is capturing your family as you are right now.
How long does a family photo session last?
Most family sessions last around 60 minutes, which is usually the perfect amount of time to keep children engaged while capturing a great variety of photographs.
Mini sessions are available, but only at limited times and these sessions are designed to be short and sweet, so do not offer as much variety.
What should kids wear for family photos?
Comfort is key. Choose outfits that children can move and play in easily. Neutral colours, soft tones, and simple patterns photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family rather than the clothing.
It is also helpful to avoid large logos or very bright colours that might distract from the natural feel of the images.
What if my kids are very energetic?
That is actually perfect for lifestyle family photography. Running, jumping, spinning, and playing all create wonderful natural moments that look fantastic in photos.
The goal is not to stop the energy, but to capture it.
What should I bring to a family photo session with kids?
Snacks, drinks, wipes, a favourite toy, and possibly a spare outfit for little ones.
What time of day is best for family photos with children?
Golden hour before sunset is ideal, but sessions can also work well earlier in the day when children are happiest and well rested.
What if my child is shy?
Many children start off shy but warm up quickly once they realise the session involves playing and exploring rather than posing.
Final Thoughts
When parents ask me how to make family photos fun for kids, I always say, focus on joy, not perfection. By choosing the right location, keeping the session playful, and letting children be themselves, you will not only get wonderful photos but also enjoy the experience together as a family.
For more inspiration on creating stress free family moments, you can also check out National Trust’s family days out ideas, perfect for finding fun locations that double up as beautiful backdrops for your photos.
Thinking about updating your family photos?
Get in touch to book your session today!
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