How to Prepare Kids for Family Photos | Crested Butte Family Photographer
Worried about how your kids will do during your family photo session? Here are three simple ways to prep your little ones for fun, natural family photos in Crested Butte.
Let’s Be Honest — Family Photos Can Feel Like a Big Deal!
You’ve picked the perfect mountain backdrop in Crested Butte, chosen your outfits, and scheduled your session — but one big question still lingers:
👉 “How will my kids behave during the photos?”
Don’t worry — this is completely normal! As a family photographer (and a mom myself), I’ve seen it all: shy smiles, silly faces, mid-session snack breaks… and every moment in between.
The good news? With a little preparation, your session can be relaxed, fun, and full of genuine joy.
Here are three easy ways to prep your kids for family photos so everyone shows up happy and ready for a great experience.
1️⃣ Talk About the Session Ahead of Time
Kids love to know what to expect.
A few days before your shoot, tell them you’re going on a fun little adventure — not a serious photoshoot.
✨ Try this:
- “We’re going to play games and take pictures in the mountains!”
- “Our photographer will help us laugh and have fun.”
Avoid pressure like “You have to smile nicely,” and instead focus on the experience — “We’re going to make fun memories together!”
When kids feel involved and excited, they show up with curiosity instead of nerves.
2️⃣ Make It Comfortable — and Fun!
Happy kids = happy photos. Keep them comfortable with clothes they can move in and bring small things that help them relax.
✅ Pack these essentials:
- Snacks or small treats (for quick breaks!)
- Water bottles
- A favorite toy or blanket for comfort
- Layers in case of wind or temperature changes
✨ Bonus tip: Plan your session time around their happiest part of the day. Avoid nap times if possible — golden hour is magical, but a tired toddler isn’t!
3️⃣ Let Go of “Perfect” — Focus on Connection
This might be the most important one.
Kids don’t need to sit perfectly still or smile on command to create beautiful images. The best photos happen in the in-between moments — when they’re giggling, exploring, or snuggling close.
✨ During your session:
- Let your kids be themselves — silly, shy, or curious.
- Play, tickle, dance — I’ll capture those real smiles.
- Trust me to guide the flow and keep it light.
Your photos will reflect your family exactly as you are — genuine, connected, and full of love.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Family sessions aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection.
When you show up relaxed and go with the flow, your kids will feed off that energy.
The result? Beautiful, heartfelt photos that truly capture the spirit of your family — right here in the Crested Butte mountains.
📸 Ready to book your family photo adventure?
Let’s make it fun, easy, and full of laughter.
👉 Contact Third Eye Photography to schedule your session!
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