Family photo day doesn’t have to mean stress, bribes, or last-minute outfit meltdowns. As a Phoenix family photographer (and a mom of four who gets it), I’ve seen firsthand that photo sessions can actually be fun—for kids and for you.
The secret? A little prep, a dash of patience, and just the right vibe. ✨
Here’s how to keep the smiles real and the stress levels low for your next family photo shoot!
Don’t Put Pressure on Them to Be Perfect 🙃
(Let go of the expectations—it shows in the photos!)
We all want those dreamy, frame-worthy family photos. But when you’re telling your kids “be good,” “stand still,” or “smile nicer,” they start to feel it. And pressure is the fastest way to shut down their natural joy.
Instead, just let them be themselves.
✨ Kids wiggle, giggle, and occasionally roll around in the grass. That’s part of the magic. As your family photographer in Phoenix, I’m not expecting perfection—I’m looking for personality, play, and connection.
📷 Real smiles happen when kids feel relaxed, not micromanaged.
💡 Try This:
- Before the session, say something like: “We’re just going to have fun and play while someone takes our picture!”
- Focus on enjoying your family, not managing every move.
Let Them Bring a Favorite Toy or Prop 🧸
(It’s not “unprofessional”—it’s personal!)
Whether it’s a beloved teddy, a superhero cape, or a sparkly unicorn wand, allowing your child to bring something familiar gives them comfort—and confidence.
I’ve had sessions where a stuffed animal totally saved the day. Sometimes it makes it into the photo (which I love!), and sometimes it just hangs nearby while your child warms up.
🎒 Props like:
- A favorite book 📖
- Sports gear (little soccer fans, anyone?) ⚽
- Bubbles or pinwheels for younger kids 🫧
Not only do these items help your child feel secure, but they also add a special, real-life touch to your session.
Use Candy or a Treat as a Sweet Ending 🍭
(Yes, this is your official permission to bring lollipops!)
Treats can be a great motivator—not a bribe, but a reward. I always encourage families to plan something small and fun for the end of their session. It gives kids something to look forward to and ends the day on a high note.
🍦 Try these fun photo-day traditions:
- A lollipop after the last photo (super cute in pics, too!)
- A surprise trip for ice cream or donuts
- Bringing mini marshmallows or fruit snacks for little rewards throughout the shoot
✨ Bonus: Letting your kids hold a treat in the final few shots? Adorable.
💡 Tip: Keep wipes in your bag for any post-lollipop stickiness!
Bring Their Favorite Music 🎶
(Because dance parties always bring the fun!)
Kids LOVE music—and sometimes all it takes is hearing their favorite song to shake off nerves or get them moving. I’ve even had full-blown dance parties during sessions, and they make for the cutest candid moments!
💃 Some fun ideas:
- Create a short playlist on your phone with their favorite songs
- Play “freeze dance” to break the ice
- Have a mini sing-along session
Music can completely shift the mood and help your child feel like they’re just hanging out instead of being “on” for photos.
🎧 Need a playlist idea? I’ve got a go-to list I bring along as a backup! 🙋♀️
Choose a Photographer Who Works Well With Kids (👋 That’s Me!)
(Experience makes all the difference.)
This might be the most important tip. Some photographers are amazing with lighting or locations—but not every photographer knows how to work with kids.
As a former early childhood teacher turned Phoenix family photographer, I specialize in working with little ones (and not-so-little ones, too). I understand how to read moods, shift energy, and adapt quickly to what your family needs in the moment.
🎯 When looking for a photographer, ask:
- Do they have experience with young kids?
- How do they handle shy or wild personalities?
- Can they roll with meltdowns or high energy?
I’ve photographed hundreds of families in the Phoenix area, and I always aim to make the experience playful, easy, and authentic.
Want to see what that looks like? Take a peek at my family portfolio here.
Final Thoughts 💬
Photo day doesn’t have to be full of stress and stiff smiles. With the right prep (and the right photographer 😉), it can be a memory in itself—a time to laugh, play, and enjoy each other while capturing moments that matter.
Ready to book a session that your kids actually have fun in? I’d love to make it happen!
More Photo Day Prep Tips Just for You:
- 👗 What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session
- 🌅 Why Golden Hour Is the Best Time for Family Photos in Phoenix
- 🌳 Best Phoenix Parks for a Picnic (and Pictures!)
Still have questions or want to chat about your session ideas? I’m always here to help! 💌 emily@cozyclicks.com
