Parents often worry that their children will not sit still, smile properly or behave perfectly during a family photoshoot. The truth is, they do not need to. Children are children. A good family photoshoot should work around their personality, not force them into awkward poses for an hour.
At Steve Lowrey Photography in Leigh, I photograph families and children from Leigh, Wigan, Manchester, Bolton and across Greater Manchester. Some children arrive full of confidence. Some are shy. Some need time to settle. That is completely normal.
Do Not Put Too Much Pressure on Them
One of the best things you can do before a family photoshoot is avoid making it sound like a big formal event. If children are told repeatedly that they must “be good” or “smile properly”, they can arrive feeling nervous or resistant.
Instead, keep it simple. Tell them you are going to have some family photographs taken and that it should be fun. For younger children, you can describe it as visiting a studio, playing a little and having some pictures together.
The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed they are likely to be.
Make Sure They Are Fed and Rested
This sounds obvious, but it makes a huge difference. Hungry or tired children rarely enjoy being photographed.
Before the session, try to make sure children have eaten and had enough rest. If your child still naps, avoid booking a time that clashes with their usual sleep routine.
For younger children, bringing a drink and a small non-messy snack can help. Avoid anything that stains clothing or faces just before the shoot.
Choose Comfortable Clothing
Children do not need to be dressed uncomfortably to look good in family portraits. If an outfit is itchy, tight, too hot or unfamiliar, it can affect their mood.
Choose clothing that looks nice but still allows them to move, sit and play. Simple outfits often photograph best.
Good options include:
- plain tops
- dresses
- shirts
- smart jeans
- knitted jumpers
- dungarees
- simple shoes
- bare feet for relaxed studio portraits
Avoid large logos, very busy patterns and anything that needs constant adjusting.
Bring a Favourite Toy or Comfort Item
For younger children, a favourite toy, teddy or comfort item can be useful. It can help them settle into the studio and feel safe.
The toy does not have to be in every photograph, but it can be used to create a natural moment or help a child relax. Sometimes those little personal details become part of the memory.
Let Children Warm Up
Not every child is ready to smile the second they walk through the door. Some need a few minutes to look around and understand what is happening.
That is fine.
I do not expect children to perform on command. A relaxed start often gives better photographs later in the session. If a child is shy, we can begin gently. If they are lively, we can use that energy rather than fighting it.
Avoid Bribing Too Early
A small treat after the session can be fine, but try not to start the shoot with lots of pressure or bribery. Children can quickly become focused on the reward rather than the experience.
Instead of saying, “Smile properly and you will get a treat,” it is usually better to keep things calm and positive.
Natural smiles are better than forced smiles.
What If My Child Does Not Smile?
This is one of the most common worries. The answer is simple: not every good portrait needs a big smile.
Some of the strongest children’s portraits are thoughtful, serious, cheeky or natural. A forced grin is not always the best image. The aim is to photograph your child’s real personality, not just one fixed expression.
Of course, smiles are lovely when they happen naturally. But they do not need to be forced.
Preparing Older Children and Teenagers
Older children and teenagers may not always be excited about a family photoshoot. That is normal too.
It helps to involve them in the process. Let them have a say in what they wear and explain that the session does not have to be embarrassing or overly posed. I can keep things relaxed and straightforward.
For teenagers, a more natural style often works better than asking them to do anything too staged.
Parents Set the Tone
Children often take their cue from parents. If parents are stressed, children pick up on it. If parents stay calm and flexible, the session usually runs much better.
Try not to worry if your child is energetic, shy or not doing exactly what you expected. That is normal. My job is to work with what happens and create good photographs from it.
What to Bring to the Photoshoot
Useful things to bring include:
- spare clothes for younger children
- wipes
- hairbrush or comb
- drink
- small non-messy snack
- favourite toy
- comfort item
- outfit options if unsure
You do not need to bring everything, but a few practical items can make the session easier.
A Family Photoshoot Should Feel Relaxed
The best family photographs usually come from real connection. Cuddles, laughter, quiet moments, playful expressions and natural interaction all matter.
Children do not need to be perfect. They just need space to be themselves.
Book Children’s and Family Photography in Leigh
If you are planning a family photoshoot and are worried about how your children will behave, please do not be. I am used to working with children of different ages and personalities, and the session can be adapted around your family.
My studio is based at Spinners Mill in Leigh, and I photograph families from Leigh, Wigan, Manchester, Bolton and across Greater Manchester.
For more information, visit my main family photography page:
children’s and family photography in Leigh
Make an enquiry – Contact Me
