As a mom of 3 and a photographer in Kansas City, I have helped thousands of families prepare their kids for the best family session possible.
Want to know a secret, though? My own 3 kids used to HATE to get photography sessions, so I needed to come up with a solution not only for them but for my client’s families as well! And I have!
After implementing these 4 simple tips, my kids are EXCITED to have photos taken… and I have become known for being the photographer that where dads admit it was pretty fun, kids never want to leave, and moms tear up for how memorable the experience is.
5 Tips To Prepare Kids For The Best Photography Session: By Photographer In Kansas City
1. YOU don’t stress! Be excited and share that excitement
This has been the biggest game changer for kids I’ve found as a family photographer in Kansas City. I know when I have a big to-do list, I get stressed, and my kids feel it. And we all know that if you don’t hire a helpful photographer, family sessions add a lot to your to-do list (aka a lot of stress!)! That’s why it’s so important to find a photographer that will help relieve that stress. Family portraits don’t have to be stressful… they can be relaxing and fun!
I know I help my clients by helping them with each of the steps, which relieves so much stress for them. I help find the perfect location, outfits, planning, preparation, and more! By the time sessions comes around, I’ve talked to my clients a few times (and often the kids too!) So they are more relaxed, prepared, and so much less on their plate to truly enjoy the session and share their excitement with their kids.
2. Plan a lifestyle session
Lifestyle sessions are different from your typical stand and cheese during your pictures. Lifestyle sessions are a chance for your kids to let loose and play, cuddle, and spend quality time with their favorite people… YOU! As a lifestyle family photographer in Kansas City, I may be a little partial, but these types of sessions are so much more meaningful for families because your photographer can capture photos that represent who your family is in this season, and all those beautiful tiny memories will come flooding back every time you look at these photos.
3. Cater to their needs and personalities
After working with thousands of families as a family photographer in Kansas City and seeing how each of my own 3 children respond, I’ve learned to cater to their needs and personalities as we prepare for sessions.
For example for my kids, my oldest loves to feel in control, so he helps have an opinion on what he wears and gets so excited to wear his outfit to our family session.
My middle child gets stressed in situations he knows he has to “be good.” So we leave that part out of all conversations, and we build him up before and during the session keeping him busy and playing with us.
My youngest will do anything for a special treat. So we pack some special snacks to enjoy after the session.
This is so specific to each individual but something I work through with every family I work with. During my client’s preparation, I ask what kind of things they may see as obstacles or may help their child feel comfortable, and we brainstorm how we can work with each child to make it a good experience for them
4. Be present and enjoy the moment during your session
I know as moms, we want things perfect for our family. But during the session, this is a time to relax, be present and enjoy the moment. As a family photographer, I help all of my clients Guide them throughout the session to special moments with their kids to enjoy this time together. In our busy lives, everyone (including our kids!) craves connection and time with their family. So as you relax and enjoy this time with your family, so will your kids. And that is exactly what I help you do!
5. Be you!
As a family photographer in Kansas City serving all of southwest Missouri and surrounding areas, I can say the best thing to do as you prepare your kids is BE YOU! You are doing so good, mama, and your kids love you more than you know. If you’re working with me, I will help with the rest. It will be a beautiful, relaxing, and fun experience for the whole family!
Are you looking for a photographer in Kansas City?
Hello! I am a maternity, newborn, and family photographer serving Kansas City. I help with everything from finding the perfect outfit, location, planning, preparation, and more! I even have a motherhood client closet you are welcome to borrow from! Click HERE to get more information on working together.
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