What to do with the Kids at a Photoshoot

What to do with the kids at a photoshoot: 

Most of the time wrangling your little one before a photoshoot becomes a crazy, tiresome adventure that ends in mom or dad becoming exhausted before the pictures even start. So if it is a family photography session or individual photographs of your children, we want you to know that we understand and we have a few tips that might help. 

• Let the children be, well... Children: Try not to coach your child. Many times children see photographers as strangers with odd boxes looking at them. They clam up and get shy, or cranky, or even act out. As photographers we want parents to know that this is completely ok. In fact we enjoy when children can express themselves and be as natural as if they were at home. 
• The key word is FUN: Kids just wanna have fun. They will move a ton because they want to explore, play, and experience this odd day out with mom and dad. This is completely ok! 
• Timing is key: Young children get cranky when they get tired. We recommend scheduling your session early in the day before they wear themselves out or after a nap that way they are refreshed for the adventure ahead. (That is unless we are photographing sleeping infants, then I suggest a time when the child usually sleeps the hardest).
• Just be prepared: Cranky kids can become inconsolable, especially when they become thirsty or hungry. Be prepared by bringing small snack foods that are not messy, and some water. Also prepare for the unexpected such as muddy hands, dirt on the clothes, and stuff in the hair. Baby wipes are a god send!
• Sometimes Toys just help: When children become shy or closed off, especially if they are younger, bringing one of their favorite toys/blankets can cheer them up and get their attention. 
• A Change of clothes, just in case: As parents we all know the doomed moment before the big day... a poop-tastrophy! A change of clothes is always welcomed. 

Tip: Pastels and happy colors work great for kids. Try to avoid solid whites, blacks, stripes, and strong patterns. This lets the eye color pop and brings out the hair color of your beautiful child.

We hope that these tips and tricks will help during your next photography session. Put all your worries aside and just have fun!
Next weekend we'll be reviewing indoor locations Vs outdoor locations and how to choose the best one for your perfect pictures. Hope you'll join us!
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~Amanda
R.E.A.L. Photography