As a family photographer for more than ten years, I have been there: working with wiggly toddlers, preventing tantrums, and using every tip in the book to get those picture-perfect smiles. I know how quickly the dream of the perfect family portrait can become stressful.

But posed, picture-perfect moments aren't actually what makes meaningful family photos. The portraits that are cherished most down the road are the unscripted, candid ones. The real magic happens in the in-between moments - full of uncontrollable giggles, goofy expressions, and kids just being wonderfully, unapologetically themselves.

Those tiny windows of authentic childhood disappear in an instant. So if you want to capture perfect family photos, you must be prepared and know the right ways to connect with the excited little ones. With some smart strategies and a flexible mindset, you can transform what could be a stressful experience into a memorable adventure the family will smile looking back on.

From my years spent chronicling hundreds of families, here are my top tips for ensuring a successful, sanity-saving photoshoot when little ones are involved:

Get Them Excited (But Manage Expectations)

Around a week beforehand, start hyping up the photoshoot as a fun upcoming activity. Let kids pick out special outfits and build a little anticipation. But be careful not to overhype it either - you don't want portraits to become a high-pressure situation where they feel performance is required. You can also pop by my studio with your kids to shop from the wardrobe available. This way, we can all get to know each other and your kids will feel more comfortable.

Wear Them Out Strategically

It may sound counterintuitive, but slightly lower-energy kids are often easier photographic subjects than a kid who's a total frantic force. Time your shoot after a draining activity like a long walk or trip to the park to burn off some of those wiggles first.

Bring In Backup

Having an extra pair of hands can be a lifesaver when you're outnumbered. See if your spouse, a family member, or even a photography assistant can join in to manage kids or hand out snacks and entertainment.

Work At Their Speed

Kids' attention spans are fleeting, so you've got to leave a location or setup that's not working and swiftly move on to something new. Having an ultra-flexible plan of attack and going with their flow prevents tantrums before they can start.

Get On Their Level Physically and Mentally

Some of the most captivating, frame-worthy shots happen when you get down on their level. I'm talking about laying on the floor, making goofy sounds, and totally tapping into your own inner child too. It's about fully immersing yourself in their world to capture authentic expressions as they happen.

Use Interactive Prompts

Rather than barking out posed demands for smiles and stillness that make them squirm, give kids lighthearted prompts to play and interact naturally instead. Have them chase each other around, play a simple game, or just be straight-up silly together. You'll catch real, unstaged laughter and personalities as they unfold.

Make It a Collaborative Process

While you're the director, get them involved by asking for their input too! Kids stay way more engaged and excited when they feel like they have a voice and ownership over portrait ideas. It's a little thing that goes a long way.

Stay Flexible and Patient

No matter how prepared you are, there will inevitably be moments of distraction, resistance, or even full-blown meltdowns. It's just part of being with little ones. The key is brushing it off, keeping your cool, and not letting it spiral into a negative cycle.

Most importantly - make sure you're having just as much fun as they are! As a photographer, it's crucial to match your subjects' level of energy and excitement. Your vibrant presence and willingness to be just as goofy and unguarded will get those real, contagious smiles and candid interactions flowing.

So loosen up. Prepare for some happy chaos and precious pandemonium. With a focused yet flexible mentality and by tuning into your kids' rhythms, you'll capture heartfelt, unstaged moments brimming with spirit, love, and laughter that you'll cherish forever.

Have fun, stay present, and trust that the most wonderful family portraits will emerge when you least expect them. Those are the true generational treasures.

And if you decide to go for a professional family photographer in Grimsby ON, you can contact me. Let’s discuss your session.

How to Capture the Perfect Family Portrait with Young Kids