We’ve all been there...standing behind the camera, desperately waving, pulling silly faces, and maybe even offering up a chocolate bribe just to get a real smile.
But here’s the thing: kids don’t need coaxing (or sweets) to flash their most joyful grins. They just need to feel at ease, have fun, and be in the moment.
As a photographer who spends a lot of time capturing little personalities, I know that the best smiles are the ones that happen naturally. So, if you’re wondering how to get your child giggling without turning into a one-person circus act, here are some tried-and-tested tips.
Create a Fun, Relaxed Atmosphere
Kids pick up on our energy, so if you’re feeling tense about getting the “perfect shot,” chances are, they will too. Instead of making the camera the focus of the moment, make the experience the focus.
Think of it as a playdate rather than a photoshoot, whether it’s a family session or just a quick photo at home. The more fun and relaxed they feel, the more natural their expressions will be.
Get Them Moving
If there’s one thing I know about kids, it’s that they rarely sit still for long! Instead of asking them to pose, encourage movement...running to a parent for a big hug, twirling in their favourite dress, or jumping as high as they can. Action creates real moments, and real moments create real smiles.
Plus, giving kids permission to move can help prevent the dreaded stiff, forced grin. Win-win!
Make It a Game
Let’s be honest, if a child thinks something is a game, they’re automatically more interested.
Try playful prompts like:
- “Who can pull the silliest face first?”
- “Let’s see who can whisper the funniest secret to Mum!”
- “On the count of three, everyone jump as high as they can!”
Before they know it, they’re laughing, engaged, and completely unaware that they’re being photographed.
Encourage Connection, Not Just Posing
Some of the best smiles come from moments, not instructions. A shared giggle between siblings, a whispered joke from Dad, or a tickle fight with Mum...these natural interactions create photos that truly feel like your family.
So, instead of saying, “Smile for the camera,” try encouraging closeness, cuddles, and silly little moments that bring out their joy.
Use Their Imagination
Kids live in a world of make-believe, so why not bring that magic into the photos? Ask them to:
- Pretend they’re superheroes flying through the air.
- Imagine they’re sneaky spies on a secret mission.
- Roar like a lion or flutter like a fairy.
When they’re lost in a world of fun, the expressions that follow will be pure joy.
Be Playfully Unpredictable
Want to grab their attention? Do something unexpected! Whether it’s a funny noise, pretending to trip, or making a ridiculously silly face, a little surprise can go a long way.
You could dramatically gasp in horror at imaginary spiders, or suddenly sneeze so loudly that kids burst into giggles. The more playful you are, the more natural the reaction.
Let Them Take the Lead
Kids love feeling in charge, so let them! Ask them how they want to pose or let them direct the next shot. If they feel like they’re part of the process rather than just being told what to do, they’ll be far more engaged, and excited to smile!
Embrace the Chaos
If your child is bouncing off the walls, climbing on Dad, or dissolving into giggles instead of standing still, embrace it.
Some of the best, most cherished photos come from the beautifully imperfect moments. A cheeky grin, an unexpected belly laugh, or a wild burst of energy...these are the memories that truly capture their personality.
So, there you have it...smiles without bribery, negotiations, or excessive amounts of waving behind the camera.
Next time you’re after a joyful, natural expression, just remember: play, connect, and let them be themselves. The best smiles aren’t forced...they’re felt.
And if you’d love a stress-free photoshoot where your kids can just be themselves, I’d love to capture those moments for you! Let’s make it happen. 💛
