Playing Games, Not Posing!
A Parent’s Guide to Family Photos
Before we even talk about your kids… let’s talk about you. You play a huge role in making this session work. Here’s what really matters:
Rule #1: Keep a smile on your face—no matter what is happening.
Even if your kids are running off in every direction, even if things feel chaotic, even if you’re ready to scream inside… smile. Your relaxed, happy energy is what the photos capture.
Example:The other day, a dad was getting frustrated because his little boy kept wandering off. I would have gotten really great pictures of the boy exploring with the parents in the background—but instead, the dad looked angry in the frame, so I had to delete those photos. Stay relaxed. Keep smiling. The photos turn out amazing when you do.
Rule #2: Stay close together—even if it feels awkward.
I mean really close.Like, on top of each other the whole time. Hug, hold hands, touch, scoop up your kids—and then keep touching each other while you’re holding them. Arms around shoulders, hands on backs, leaning in—connection shows. The closer you are, the stronger the energy comes through.
Rule #3: Play like a family—especially at the start.
No “we just gotta take some pictures and then we’re done” or “look at the camera.” That’s how kids check out immediately.
Start with a game:
Chase your kids, scoop them up, spin them around.
Airplane them through the air.
Play Ring Around the Rosie—hold hands and spin as fast as you can.
Tickle them on the ground, tickle them in the air—just keep tickling.
Ask them to find a flower for you, tuck a flower behind their ears, reach up for a flower in a tree.
Anything that gets everyone moving, laughing, and connecting—the sillier, the better. That’s where the magic begins.
Rule #4: Keep looking at each other—no matter what.
If dad is throwing a kid in the air, look at dad or the kid you’re holding. Don’t glance at the camera. If you’re spinning together, watch each other. If you’re tickling, watch each other. The connection between you is what shows up in the gallery. The camera just captures it—you don’t need to worry about it.
Rule #5: Pretend the camera isn’t there.
I’m just documenting you playing as a family. That’s all I need you to do. If you look at the camera and everyone else is playing or interacting- it looks out of place & the photo gets deleted.
Do those things, and I can get amazing photos—even if your kids decide to do their own thing.
Want to see more family photography moments captured in Athens, Georgia?
Check out my family galleries for playful, relaxed sessions.
Have questions or want to reach out about a session in Athens or nearby?
Contact me here and let’s chat!
