How to Prepare Young Kids for a Family Photoshoot

If you've ever tried to get a toddler to sit still, smile on cue, and look at a camera at the same time, you already know why "just relax and be yourselves" can sound like a big ask. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way.

Prepare Young Kids for a Family Photoshoot by Timing It Right

Try to book your session for a time of day when your child is usually at their best — after a nap, after a meal, not right before bedtime. A well-rested, well-fed child will naturally give you better photos than a perfectly planned outfit ever will.

Talk About It Beforehand, Simply

For younger children, a short, low-pressure explanation helps more than a big build-up. Avoid over-hyping it as a big event they need to perform for — that pressure tends to backfire. This lines up with general child psychology guidance — the BBC Tiny Happy People resource has more on giving young children small choices to ease anxiety in new situations.

Let Them Have Some Say

Letting your child pick between two outfit options, or choosing which toy to bring along, gives them a small sense of control over the day. It often reduces resistance more than any amount of persuasion in the moment.

Bring Backup, Not Just Patience

A favourite snack, a small toy, or something that makes them laugh can be genuinely useful during a session. The best family photos are rarely the posed "everyone say cheese" shot; they're the one where your toddler is mid-giggle at something silly you just did.

Lower the Pressure on "The Perfect Shot"

Kids can sense tension, and a parent who's stressed about getting it right often makes the whole session harder than it needs to be. Some of the best photos come from the in-between moments, not the posed ones.

Arrive With a Little Time to Spare

Turning up rushed and flustered transfers straight to your kids. Building in a few extra minutes to arrive and settle tends to make the whole session smoother. If your session is outdoors, our guide to the best family photoshoot locations in Leeds and Yorkshire can help with planning, and if you have little ones deciding what to wear, see our tips on what to wear for a children's photoshoot.

Frequently Asked Questions