Tips for Fun Family Photos with Young Children

Hi there! I am Laura, the camera- wielding, peekaboo- playing, snack packing photographer behind Alternate Angles Photography. I have been photographing families in the Greater Boston area for over 20 yrs and if there is one thing I know for sure, it is that kids are gloriously unpredictable. And that is exactly what makes family sessions so much fun.

If the thought of family photos with your toddler makes you sweat a little, do not worry. I have got you. Here are my favorite ways to make your photo session feel more like playtime and less like a staged performance.

1. Pick the Right Time of Day

Choose a time when your child is usually smiling and not melting into a puddle. Mid morning after breakfast or right after a nap tends to be a sweet spot. Happy kids make happy photos, and nobody wants to see hangry in high resolution.

2. Keep It Short and Sweet

Little kids have short attention spans. Think goldfish. I work fast to catch those smiles before someone needs a diaper change or a juice box. Most sessions last between 1 to 2 hours but they often include various breaks throughout the session, with the best magic often happening in when it's least expected.

3. Dress Cute but Keep It Comfy

Fancy outfits are great, but if your child is itchy, sweaty, or tangled in a bow tie, they are not going to be in the mood for a close up. Choose clothes that look nice but feel good too. Coordinated colors are great, matching outfits are optional, and comfort is always king.

4. Let the Kids Be Kids

The best photos are the ones where your child is being their true self. Running in circles? Perfect. Making silly faces? Even better. Do not worry about posing too much. I will be right there capturing the real moments, not just the ones where everyone is saying cheese at the same time.

5. Bring Snacks and Take Breaks

Snacks save lives. Or at least photo sessions. Pack a few simple treats like crackers or fruit to keep spirits up. A quick nibble can work wonders, and a short break to regroup can bring back the smiles when attention starts to drift. Try to avoid snacks that will stain or get clothing wet.

6. Get Silly and Have Fun

Want to know the secret to natural smiles? Be goofy. Tickle fights, singing off key, playing tag:  yes, even during your photo shoot. The more fun you have, the more genuine your photos will be. And if someone ends up with grass stains or a wrinkled shirt, I promise it will be worth it.

7. Roll With It

Sometimes someone cries. Sometimes no one wants to sit still. That is all part of the story. Some of my favorite images have come from unscripted, chaotic moments. Embrace the unexpected. It is often where the magic hides.

8. Hire a Photographer Who Gets It

I have spent over two decades making animal noises, dodging bubbles, and capturing families just as they are. I come prepared with patience, tricks, and a sense of humor. Your only job is to show up, love on your kids, and enjoy the moment.

So relax, breathe, and remember that real beats perfect every time. Let us make some memories you will laugh about for years to come.

www.alternateangles.com