How to Make Family Photo Sessions Fun for Kids

Family photo sessions often bring up visions of stiff poses, forced smiles, and parents silently praying their kids cooperate. But after 15 years as a Minneapolis family photographer, I can tell you: the best portraits come when families loosen up and let the magic of connection take the lead. The trick? Candid moments and a playful approach. In this post, I’ll share my top tips for making your session fun and engaging for your kids—so instead of dreading it, they might just think of it as the best part of their week (no promises, but we try!).

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Set the Tone Before the Photo Session

Before the camera even comes out, the tone for your session is being set. Talk about it like it’s going to be something fun—not a chore everyone has to “get through.” Instead of saying, “You better behave for pictures,” try something like, “We’re going to play in the park and take some fun photos with Michele!” Framing the experience this way helps kids feel excited rather than pressured. And the more relaxed and positive everyone is going in, the more likely you are to walk away with photos you absolutely love.

Play Is the Secret Sauce

Kids aren’t wired to sit still and smile on command—and honestly, that’s what makes their energy so magical. The best photos often come from movement, laughter, and letting them just be themselves. Here’s how I build play into every session:

Let Them Explore: I love shooting in locations where kids can safely roam. Whether it’s a wooded trail or a quiet field, giving them space to run, pick up sticks, or follow a bug creates moments that are real and unscripted.
Turn It Into a Game: I might suggest simple games like ring-around-the-rosy, a quick race, or a round of peek-a-boo. These keep kids engaged and usually lead to the most joyful expressions.
Encourage Connection: Whether it’s a big sibling hug or a parent spinning their toddler in the air, I’ll gently guide you into playful moments that feel natural and fun—never forced.

By focusing on play, we’re not just capturing smiles—we’re telling the story of who your family really is right now.

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Keeping Kids Comfortable (Without Bribes or Meltdowns)

Happy kids = better photos. But you don’t need tricks or treats to get there. Here are a few things I always keep in mind to help things go smoothly:

Stay Relaxed: Kids feed off your energy. If you're calm and enjoying yourself, they’re more likely to do the same. Don’t stress about “perfect” behavior—just focus on having fun together.
Skip the Bribes: Promising rewards during the session almost always backfires. Instead, trust the process. I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve to keep kids engaged without turning the session into a negotiation.
Keep It Short and Sweet: Little ones don’t need hours in front of a camera. My sessions are designed to blend gentle direction with plenty of space to move, pause, and reset when needed.
Roll With It: Sometimes kids do the exact opposite of what we expect—and that’s okay. I’ve been doing this long enough to know how to pivot and still get beautiful, genuine images.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. And with a little flexibility (and someone experienced behind the camera), we’ll get there just fine.

The Power of Candid Moments

Candid images often outshine the perfectly posed because they show real emotion and real connection. Here’s why I prioritize them:

Authentic Expressions: Whether it’s a belly laugh, a goofy face, or a quiet snuggle—these are the moments that truly reflect who your children are.
Natural Interactions: From tickle fights to hand-holding, the way your family naturally connects is what gives your session heart.
Timeless Feel: Years from now, these images won’t just remind you of what your child looked like—they’ll remind you who they were.

Want more ideas? Check out The One Tip For Taking The Best Family Holiday Photos, According To Photographers for more inspiration.

The magic of working with someone experienced in kid-focused sessions and Twin Cities family photography is knowing how to create space for these moments to happen—then capturing them in a way that feels true to your family.

Family photo sessions don’t have to feel like a chore. With a little planning, a relaxed mindset, and a playful approach, your session can be one of those surprisingly great days everyone talks about after. Whether you're chasing kids through a park or curled up for a snuggle, the goal is to document the real stuff—the connection, the joy, and the little things that make your family yours.

Ready to schedule your session or have ideas that work well with your kids? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear!

Investment Information

Michele is a highly sought-after Minneapolis family photographer known for creating relaxed, playful experiences for families. With over 15 years of experience, she’s mastered the art of capturing candid moments that highlight connection and personality. Specializing in Twin Cities family photography, Michele believes sessions should be fun for kids and simple for parents. From choosing outfits to picking the best time of day, she’ll guide you through every step. When she’s not behind the camera, you’ll find her sharing tips on making photo sessions smoother, more engaging, and full of heart on her blog.

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How to Make Family Photo Sessions Fun for Kids

Set the Tone Before the Photo Session

Play Is the Secret Sauce

Keeping Kids Comfortable (Without Bribes or Meltdowns)

The Power of Candid Moments

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