Every parent wonders this before a family photos:
👉 “What if my kids melt down or won’t cooperate?”
Deep breath — I’ve photographed hundreds of families, and the good news is:
Kids don’t have to be perfect for your family photos to be perfect.
Here’s how to keep kids happy, relaxed, and even excited for family photos.
1. Talk About the Session Like an Adventure
Kids respond to enthusiasm.
Instead of:
✘ “We’re taking photos.”
Try:
✔ “We’re going to explore the mountains!”
✔ “We get to play games and take pictures!”
It sets the tone for fun instead of pressure.
2. Dress Them in Comfortable Clothes
If kids are itchy, cold, or restricted → meltdown city.
Choose:
✔ Soft fabrics
✔ Stretchy layers
✔ Comfy shoes
✔ Well-worn outfits they’ve worn before
Comfort = cooperation.
3. Bring Snacks + Water (but not messy ones!)
Snacks can save a session.
Best options:
🍎 Fruit snacks
🧁 Mini muffins
🥨 Pretzels
🫐 Dry fruit
💦 Water
Avoid:
✘ Chocolate
✘ Bright candy
✘ Anything that stains
We want happy faces, not messy ones!
4. Let Them Take Breaks
We move at their pace.
If your child needs to:
✨ Explore
✨ Reset
✨ Snack
✨ Take a moment
It’s totally OK.
In fact — these moments often lead to the sweetest candid photos.
5. Don’t Stress If They’re Wiggly
Wiggly kids are GREAT for photos.
I build sessions around:
✔ Play
✔ Movement
✔ Curiosity
✔ Games
✔ Snuggles
Kids don’t need to sit still — they just need to be themselves.
6. Bring a Comfort Item
Small things can help a child feel secure:
🧸 A favorite stuffed animal
🌟 A special blanket
🚗 A tiny toy
We can even incorporate it into a few photos.
7. Trust the Process
I’ve photographed every personality: shy, wild, sleepy, hyper, stubborn, silly.
There is always a way to create beautiful images.
Your job?
Love on your kids.
My job?
Capture the magic.
🤍 Final Thought
Happy kids make honest, beautiful photos — and the key is letting them be themselves.
📅 Ready for stress-free family photos in Crested Butte? Let’s make it easy + joyful.
📧 rebecca@thirdeyephotographycolorado.com
🌐 thirdeyephotographycolorado.com
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