How To Prepare Your Child For Their Photoshoot
A children’s portrait session can sound like a tedious job, especially for parents who have to go through the entire process of getting them ready and to the shoot clean, on time, and in a good mood. I have created a quick list of things you can do to make sure your entire children’s photoshoot experience runs smoothly for you, your child, and your photographer.
#1 - Feed them first
Every parent knows that a fed kid is a happy kid. To avoid the hunger monster from appearing mid-shoot, make sure to feed them a good meal before you leave the house. Portrait sessions typically last about an hour so it will be a while before they get to eat again.
#2 - Clean up those boogers
We all know that toddlers can get super snotty noses. Snot does show up on images and although your photographer can edit it out, they’d prefer not to as it’s very time consuming. Remember to bring a pack of tissues or baby wipes to clean their face up before and during the photoshoot. Your photographer will really appreciate it.
#3 - Food bribes are totally okay
As a family photographer I have met many parents who bring candy or snacks to bribe their children during their photoshoot and I completely support it. In order to get a child (or an animal) to perform, smile, or do anything but look miserable, food is a great way to peak their interest. After all, posing in front of a camera for an hour isn't really their idea of fun, is it? You want your photos to say “My kid is happy” and sometimes in order to achieve that goal, you’ve gotta whip out the candy!
#4 - Request a mental break
Your photographer is there to capture amazing shots for you and will keep shooting until your hour is up. A good children’s photographer will offer breaks, but if they don’t, don’t be shy and ask for one. Kids need mental breaks. Give them five minutes to run around and blow off some steam. We would rather have happy kids than bored kids. It’s all about give and take with them.
#5- Introduce them to their photographer
Meeting a stranger and posing in front of them might be weird for your little one. It’s the photographer’s job to introduce themselves and make your children feel safe and comfortable but if that isn’t the case with your photographer, then it might be up to you to do it. This is a good tip for other photographers too.
