As a photographer, I totally understand the challenges of capturing great photos with kids. Whether it’s toddlers who seem like they’ve had too much sugar or teens who think they’re way too cool for photos, it can feel like a mission impossible at times. But don’t worry, I’ve successfully photographed both toddlers and teens alike, and after years of experience, I’ve got a handful of go-to tips that make all the difference in getting beautiful, stress-free family photos.
So, let’s get into it!
The most important tip for any session with kids: patience. It might seem obvious, but it’s so essential. Kids are unpredictable, and some days they may not be feeling it. Whether they’re tired, shy, or just having an off day, give them the space and time they need to warm up. Let them feel comfortable in their own time – the more relaxed they are, the better the photos will turn out.
A little preparation goes a long way. Before the session, let the kids know what to expect. Tell them that you're going to take some fun pictures and encourage them to smile at the camera. If they’re particularly shy or nervous, it can be helpful to show them the camera, let them press a button, or even take a quick “test photo” of them. When they understand what’s happening, they’re usually more at ease.
Kids are all about fun, so let’s bring the fun into the photo session! Whether it’s making silly faces, telling jokes, or turning the session into a mini-game, the more enjoyable the experience, the better the photos will be. Little ones are much more likely to relax and open up when they’re having a good time.
Kids are full of energy, and trying to get them to sit still for too long can be a recipe for disaster. Instead, get them moving! I am pretty good about knowing when kids need a break from the camera to wiggle around but as their parents, I love when you ask them to jump, run, spin, or dance! This doesn’t just keep them entertained; it creates dynamic and energetic shots that capture their personality and joy. Plus, it helps them get those wiggles out, which is always a bonus.
Don’t forget to bring things your kids love! Items like bubbles, books, balls, stuffed animals, or even their favorite blanket can make for amazing photo opportunities. These items give your kids something to focus on, and they also help create interactive moments that result in authentic, joyful photos. Plus, incorporating these personal items can bring out their true personalities and make the photos feel more genuine.
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t always a perfect photo. Kids aren’t going to stay still and smile for the entire session, and that’s totally okay! Some of the best shots come from spontaneous moments, and the real, authentic photos often trump the perfectly staged ones. So, let go of any pressure and just focus on having fun with the kids and enjoying the process.
"I need you to know that, As your photographer, I understand your kids are crazy and I am not judging you for anything they say or do."
jen Bauer
The Parent Section
If you're not the parents, keep scrolling
When I photograph families, one thing I often notice is that parents get so focused on getting their kids to smile at the camera, that they end up missing the moment themselves. It’s common to hear parents say things like "Look at the camera! Over there!" and pointing as they try to get the kids to look at me. But what happens in those moments is that the parents' expressions end up looking less than picture perfect as I snap the photo while they are in middle of saying 'loooooooooo-.'
My advice? Take a step back and just enjoy the moment. Let me be the one to organize and coordinate your kids and the photo. When I ask everyone to look at the camera, I am talking to you too, mom and dad, even if your kid isn't! When I ask parents to interact with their kids (and I do this a lot!), the best photos come when they are genuinely looking at their children, sharing a laugh, or just being present. The connection between you and your kids speaks volumes more than a perfect smile or a stiff, posed moment ever will.
Parent Tip:
Moms-Watch That Hair!
I get it: your hair will be looking incredible when you step out of the house, but here’s a little tip—when you're bending down to interact with your kids (which we’ll do a lot!), your hair can often fall right into your face, blocking your expressions and the emotion of the moment. You know you'll be looking down at your kids frequently during our session, so consider wearing your hair in a style that keeps it out of your face, whether that's a simple ponytail, braid, or something else that makes you feel comfortable. This will help me capture your full expression and the connection you share with your kids!
Kids can be unpredictable, I know. The idea of a photo session might make you nervous if you’re worried about how your child will behave in front of the camera. But here’s the thing: I’ve spent years working with kids in all kinds of environments, and I have a deep understanding of kid energy and how to work with it.
Before becoming a photographer, I worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor, teaching kids from 3 months to 12 years old how to swim and have fun in the water. I’ve also spent years working at theme parks, running educational camps, and leading summer programs for kids, where I taught everything from animal facts to team-building activities. And yes, I’ve been a camp counselor, too – so I know all about keeping kids entertained and engaged while making sure they feel comfortable.
What does all of this mean for your photo session? It means I’m great at getting on your child’s level, understanding their energy, and using that to create beautiful, authentic moments. If your child is feeling extra energetic, we’re going to roll with it! My ultimate goal is to help your child feel at ease with me and the camera, so we can capture those true, candid moments that really show off their personality.
And sometimes – yes, sometimes – a kid just isn’t feeling it. That’s totally okay. It’s my job to create an environment where they trust me, and I’ll do everything I can to make that happen. But no matter what, I’ll always do my best to make sure your experience is fun, relaxed, and stress-free.
"Every parent thinks their kids are the worst—but statistically, only one set of kids actually holds that title. So chances are, it's not yours."
-again... me, Jen Bauer
Remember, the key to stress-free photos with kids is to relax, go with the flow, and embrace the chaos! Kids have a natural energy that’s contagious, so let that shine through in your photos. At the end of the day, it’s not about achieving a picture-perfect shot – it’s about capturing real, meaningful moments that you’ll treasure for years to come. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the ride, and let those smiles (and giggles) flow!
Have I convinced You?
Let's capture some chaos with your kids!
