How to Keep Your Kids Happy During Family Photos (Yes, It Is Possible!)

As a family photographer here in Northern Colorado, I’ve seen it all—meltdowns in the middle of a field, snack emergencies, unexpected mud puddles (and the inevitable dive into them). But here’s the good news: happy kids make for the most beautiful, real, joy-filled photos—and keeping them that way doesn’t have to be stressful.

Here are my top tips to help your kids feel relaxed, have fun, and actually enjoy your family photo session:

1. Prep Them (Without the Pressure)

A little heads-up goes a long way. Let your kids know they’ll be meeting a new friend (that’s me!) who’s going to take some fun pictures while you hang out together as a family. Skip the “you have to smile and behave” speech—sometimes that can build pressure and backfire.

Instead, say something like:

“We’re going to play outside together while someone takes some photos. It’ll be quick and fun!”

Framing it as playtime helps set a positive tone before we even begin.

2. Bring Snacks + Water (but Keep It Mess-Free)

Always. Always. Always. Bring snacks. Think easy, non-messy options—gummies, pretzels, or fruit snacks work great. Avoid anything too sticky, juicy, or chocolatey unless you’re ready for a wardrobe change mid-session.

And don’t forget water—especially if we’re outdoors on a warm day in one of Northern Colorado’s beautiful natural spots.

3. Let Them Be Kids

This might be the biggest one: let go of perfection. I promise the best photos come when your kids are being themselves—wiggles, silliness, and all. If your little one wants to run, tickle, or make silly faces, I’ll lean into it and capture all the real, joyful moments that come with it.

Trust me—those are the photos you’ll love the most.

4. Timing Is Everything

Schedule your session for a time when your kids are typically well-rested and fed. That golden evening light is gorgeous, but if your toddler’s bedtime is 6:30, a sunset session may not be the best choice. We can always find a time that works well and gives us beautiful light (Northern Colorado has no shortage of that!).

5. Make It a Game

I love turning parts of the session into little games or challenges—“Can you race to that tree and back?” or “Who can give the silliest hug?” Kids respond so well when it feels like play.

You can help by staying relaxed, smiling, and encouraging them in the moment. If they see you having fun, they’ll follow your lead.

6. Comfort = Confidence

Dress your kids in outfits that are cute but comfortable. If they hate tags, stiff collars, or itchy fabrics, it’ll show in the photos (and in their mood!). Soft, well-fitting clothes in colors they love are a win.

And always bring backup layers, especially in the spring and fall when Colorado weather loves to surprise us.

7. Bribes Are Okay (and Sometimes Genius)

If you want to promise a small treat after the session (ice cream, a trip to the park, a new book), I fully support that strategy. Just keep it positive and low-pressure. Sometimes a little motivation goes a long way!

8. Let Me Do the Heavy Lifting

Please don’t stress if your kids aren’t perfectly behaved or listening right away. That’s totally normal. I’ve worked with kids of all ages and personalities, and I’m pretty good at building trust and drawing out those sweet smiles and silly giggles.

All you have to do is show up, love on your family, and trust me with the rest.

Family photo sessions in Northern Colorado should be fun, relaxed, and full of connection—not chaos. And when you let go of perfection and embrace the real, that’s when the magic happens.

Ready to capture some of that joy with your crew? Let’s make it happen!

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Have more questions about your session or wondering if your kids are “too wild” for family photos? (Spoiler: they’re not.) Reach out and let’s chat! I’m always happy to help you plan a session that feels just right for your family.