10 Tips for Photoshoots with Children

Photographs of kids are a must. They honestly do grow and grow up far too fast. Before you know it, they are not kids any more at all. I have three adult children -- I know!

But sometimes photographing children can be challenging. Here are some tips that might help!

1. Consider Nap Times. Sleep makes all the difference in anyone's mood, but this is especially true for kiddos who are getting ready for an activity that, let's face it, usually isn't their favorite. Try to keep in mind the time that your child naps, wakes up and goes to bed when you schedule your photoshoot.

2. Keep Milestones in Mind. Sometimes it's not just a graduation, Christmas season or a vacation. Sometimes it's just celebrating that your six and have lost six teeth. Things like this windowpane smile are precious and come and go in the blink of an eye. Not to mention, some photographers will have discounts or lower prices in the seasons and months that are less in demand.

3. Consider your children's individual needs. If you have one child that loves to be in front of the camera and one that hates it, realize that this will result in two different sets of needs. Take care to make sure that if one child needs a little extra comforting that you communicate this to your photographer. It may seem unrelated but letting your photographer know general information about your children's likes, dislikes, fears and temperaments can actually be very helpful in their preparations for the shoot.

4. When you can, get the grandparents. Grandparents are such a gift. If you are able to include them in your shoots, you will end up with lovely photos that you, the grandparents and your children can enjoy for a lifetime.

5. Be sure to communicate specific photos you want. If you want to make sure to get group/family shots as well as one of mom and the kids; each of the kids individually; one of just the kids; one of just the parents; etc. be sure that your photographer knows this. They should ask you about it, but don't assume that they are going to get all of the shots you have in mind. They will appreciate you letting them know ahead of time!

6. When you can, let them play. If you are able or feel called to bring some of your kids' toys or a game, I say that is great! Candid shots, in my opinion, can be some of the best photos. This is especially true with kids. When kids are able to freely play their smiles are usually bigger, more frequent and genuine. Not to mention, the time will go faster for you and them both!

7. Details, details, details. Make sure that your photographer gets some detail shots, especially when they are little-little. Little hands, tiny shoes, toothless smiles, chubby little arms -- they too go quickly. You will miss those little squishes! Make sure that your photographer doesn't.

8. Consider a change of clothes. If there is dirt, mud, or anything that can get an outfit dirty, a child will find it -- trust me. Make sure that you account for things like spills, tumbles, and accidents by having a back-up outfit -- at least one.

9. When you can, add bubbles. I know this is an odd request for a photoshoot, but when you are dealing with kids, bubbles are great. Truly no matter how old the child is, if they can blow, catch, pop or even watch bubbles, you will have their attention. And they make pretty cool photos too.

10. Relax. This is the most important rule I have. Pictures are precious. They are important. I believe in it so much that I do this for a living! But more important than photos are your and your children's mental health. Don't let a photoshoot stress you out or ruin your day. Sometimes kids, like adults, are just not in the mood. Your photographer should be versed in how to make this work, but if worse comes to worse and you have the ability to reschedule (and your photographer is flexible!), that might be a better option than trying to force a photoshoot that ends up with grumpy faces all around.