5 Simple Tips for Photographing Your Kids Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Mind)
Photographing kids is equal parts chaos and magic. As a mom and a photographer, I know firsthand that little ones don’t sit still, don’t fake smile on command, and definitely don’t care if your white shirt just got grass stains while you tried to wrangle them for a photo.
But here’s the truth: the best photos of kids aren’t about stiff poses or perfect smiles. They’re about connection, comfort, and capturing the real personalities that make them who they are. Over the years, I’ve collected a few tried-and-true tips that help parents (and me!) get those frame-worthy shots without the stress.
Tip #1: Get Down on Their Level
The magic happens when you meet them eye-to-eye. Instead of shooting from adult height, crouch, kneel, or sit so you’re at your child’s level. It instantly creates more engaging, intimate portraits.
For toddlers, that might mean getting all the way to the floor. I’ve absolutely laid flat on my belly more than once to get the shot—no shame in the game when it comes to great kid photos!
Tip #2: Use Natural Light Whenever Possible
For outdoor photos, golden hour (the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset) gives that dreamy, soft glow every photographer loves. The light is warm, flattering, and turns ordinary moments into magic.
But let’s be honest—golden hour in Phoenix in July? Not always realistic. That’s where window light becomes your best friend. Indoors, position your child near a large window during the day. Indirect, filtered light will give you soft shadows and natural skin tones—just make sure to avoid harsh, direct beams that cause squints and strong shadows.
Tip #3: Create a Comfortable Environment
Kids photograph best when they’re at ease. That means ditching the “sit still and smile” energy and instead leaning into what makes them feel safe and happy.
Bring their favorite stuffed animal (or… all 100 of them), play their favorite music, or let them hold a comfort item. Even better—make their passions part of the session. Superheroes, dinosaurs, glitter explosions—if it makes them light up, it’ll translate beautifully into photos.
The more relaxed they are, the more genuine the smiles and laughter.
Tip #4: Embrace Movement and Play
Kids are built for movement—so let them move! Photograph them running, spinning, jumping, dancing, or climbing. Use a faster shutter speed to freeze their energy in motion.
When photos become about play instead of posing, the camera shifts from “ugh” to “yay.” Your kids will forget about smiling on cue because they’ll be too busy having fun. I’ve seen some of the best portraits come from spontaneous dance parties, puddle jumping, and sibling chases through the park.
Let the wild energy shine—it’s who they are right now, and it’s pure magic.
Tip #5: Get Close for Emotional Impact
Sometimes the most powerful photos are the simplest. Don’t be afraid to fill the frame with your child’s face or focus in on the little details: the curve of their eyelashes, the way they twirl their hair, those tiny toes you can’t believe used to fit in newborn socks.
Close-up shots create instant emotional connection. That joy in their eyes? That crooked grin that’s so them? Those details tell the story far more than a stiff group photo ever could.
Final Thoughts
Photographing kids isn’t about perfection—it’s about capturing the fleeting, everyday magic that makes childhood what it is. Whether you’re pulling out your iPhone at home or booking a family session with me, remember: get low, find the light, keep it fun, and don’t be afraid to let your kids just be themselves.
Because one day, you’ll look back at these photos and realize—they weren’t just pictures. They were proof of who your child was in this exact, unrepeatable season of life.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Photographer – Kim
