If you're a parent, you already know: asking your kids to "smile for the camera" can lead to anything but a real smile. Forced grins, awkward stares, or a sudden burst of silliness—I've seen it all. But after photographing dozens of families on the beach, I've learned that helping kids relax, have fun, and let their natural joy shine through, is the best way to make the magic happen.

1. Don’t Stress (They’ll Feel It)

Kids are incredibly intuitive. If you're anxious about getting the "perfect photo," they’ll pick up on that energy. The best thing you can do? Breathe, trust the process, and know that it’s okay if they’re a little wild or silly at first. Some of my favorite moments have come from genuine interaction between the kids, parents, and both —not perfect poses.

2. Let Them Be Themselves

I like to guide the session in a way that encourages fun, movement, and family connection. That means instead of asking your child to “stand still and smile,” I might ask them to run toward you, give you a big hug, or whisper a silly secret in your ear. Those activities create real emotion—and real smiles.

3. Timing Matters

For younger kids especially, time of day makes a huge difference. Scheduling your session around naps and meals is key. Golden hour (shortly before/after sunrise or sunset) offers beautiful light—but if that time is meltdown hour in your house, let’s adjust. A happy child in sunsets glow beats a cranky one at sunrise every time.

4. Dress for Comfort

If your child is itchy, cold, or uncomfortable in their outfit, we’ll be fighting an uphill battle. Choose clothing that fits well and feels good—think soft fabrics and layers if it’s breezy. A quick pre-session outfit trial at home can help catch any issues ahead of time. Be sure it's something they can get sandy or wet - it can be nearly impossible to keep a little one away from the ocean! And after all, we WANT them to play!

5. Snacks, Breaks, and the Occasional Reward (Don't think of it as a bribe)

Bring easy, non-messy snacks just in case (nothing colorful or sticky). Breaks are welcome, and I’ll often build them into the session naturally as we go from setup to setup. A small reward promised at the end—like ice cream or a favorite toy—can work wonders, but try to avoid handing out rewards during the session so it's not a distraction.

6. Let Me Connect With Them

Take some time before the shoot to talk to the kids about what to expect. A stranger with a big black camera lens can be a little off-putting, so before we start snapping, I’ll take a few minutes to say hi to your kids and build a quick connection. We'll talk about their favorite things, what they like, what they did today, favorite movies or action heroes. Sometimes that’s all it takes to put them at ease. I’ve also got a few tricks up my sleeve to bring out those natural giggles.

7. Embrace the Chaos

The best family portraits are often the ones where not everyone is looking at the camera—or even standing still. A candid moment of you chasing your toddler, snuggling on the blanket, hugging, or spontaneously laughing together tells your story far better than a stiff pose ever could.

At the end of the day, my goal is to create an experience that feels fun, relaxed, and genuine. That’s how we get images filled with heart—and smiles that are 100% real.

Want to learn more about how I work with kids during a session? Reach out here and let’s chat!