Posing is such a hot topic in the photography industry and I'm thrilled to be sharing some tips for posing those littles! Typically when people think "family photography" they cringe because their minds go straight to the kids. And I get it, kids can be unpredictable and messy and overwhelming! I have 2 little ones of my own and they can be a handful at times. But honestly, they are my favorite to photograph! Especially toddlers! They're funny and so fun to be around. If you're wondering how I can have this mindset as a photographer get ready for some practical tips for posing kids.
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This should be the first thing you think of! Think about it, for the kids you are total stranger danger. I like to include questions to the parent about their kids. What are some things they enjoy? What are their favorite activities, etc. Try getting to know them so they feel more comfortable around you. Interact with mom and dad or older siblings so they see - this person is ok!
A big aspect that photographers don't think about is getting them comfortable being around your camera. To us it's become an extension of ourselves, but to them it's a giant piece of equipment they may have never seen before! One thing I do, especially for those babies and toddlers, is snap a photo and then show them the back of my camera so they can see how it works. Most times they will be thrilled to see themselves! I mean every child, at some point, was mesmerized by the simplicity of a mirror so this really works.
When preparing for a session I always encourage the parents to relax and enjoy! This is not the time for mom and dad to have to discipline the child for not listening or whatever the case may be. I tell the parents that I will take care of the kids! I don't want the memory for anyone to be difficult or a struggle. Interact with the kids and let them be kids. Play games, make jokes, pull out all the tricks! You don't want them getting yelled at for not smiling, then photo sessions seem like a chore for both the parents and the kids.
I love posing prompts because it give everyone something to do. Especially those little ones! Their attention span is often not very long and sitting for pictures can be a strenuous task if you're expected to stay still the whole time. Maybe you have some written down on your phone or you look over some before the session. If you want ideas, I've got a list of 60 prompts in my shop. It's called the Family Posing Mini Course. I have my step by step workflow of different poses I use and they help capture those sweet, genuine moments. A few examples would be "run as fast as you can around mommy and daddy" or "hold hands and bump each other on the hips" or "look at your favorite sibling". It's giving them something to do...
