Worried Your Kids or Teens Won’t Cooperate During Family Photos? These 7 Simple Tips Will Keep Them Happy—and Help You Get Natural, Joyful Images You'll Love Forever

If you’re a parent, you know family photo sessions can feel exciting—but also a little stressful. What if the toddler melts down? What if your teen rolls their eyes or doesn’t want to be there?

Here’s the good news: with a little prep and the right approach, your session can be fun, relaxed, and filled with real connection. At Aldona G Photography, I’ve worked with families of all shapes and ages. Below are my best tips to help kids and teens feel comfortable, confident, and genuinely happy during your session.

1. Adjust Nap Time to Fit Your Session Schedule

Most sessions happen 1–2 hours before sunset for that dreamy golden light. For little ones, that can be right around tired time. Try backing up nap time or offering a quiet rest even if they don’t sleep. A rested child is more likely to be playful and engaged. Just a small schedule shift can make the whole session easier.

2. Feed Everyone Before You Arrive (Yes, Even You!)

Hungry kids—or parents—don’t make for happy photos. Plan for an early dinner or pack filling, mess-free snacks like granola bars or dried fruit. Everyone should have their own water bottle, especially on warm days. Even a quick snack can make a big difference in mood and energy. Hydrated, fed families = happier photo sessions.

3. Lower Expectations—and Lead with Patience

Sunset sessions are beautiful, but they can land at the end of a long day. Instead of hoping for “perfect” smiles or flawless behavior, go in with grace. Kids may need extra snuggles or a moment to reset—and that’s totally fine. Often those in-between, real-life moments are the most touching. When you stay calm and present, your kids will too.

4. Trust the Photographer—And Let the Kids Lead Sometimes

You don’t need to direct or discipline during the session—leave that to me. I’ll gently guide everyone while giving kids the freedom to be themselves. Sometimes letting them lead with a silly idea or a spontaneous dance creates the best photos. When parents step back and enjoy, the whole energy shifts. I’ll let you know if I need your help, but otherwise—relax and trust the process.

5. Let Teens Be Themselves

Teens want to feel seen, not staged. I create space for natural expressions and poses that feel genuine to them—whether it’s cool, quiet, playful, or all of the above. Don’t stress if they’re not grinning in every photo. Honest, relaxed portraits often tell the most powerful stories. When they feel free to be themselves, they shine.

6. Avoid Over-Coaching

It’s natural to want your teen to smile or stand up straight—but too much coaching can backfire. Phrases like “fix your posture!” or “smile more!” can make teens shut down. Trust me to guide them naturally in a way that feels comfortable. The less pressure they feel, the better they’ll show up.

7. Bring Their Favorite Music

Music is a game-changer—especially for older kids. Bring a portable speaker and let them play a few of their favorite songs during the session. It instantly creates a familiar, upbeat vibe that helps teens feel more relaxed. Plus, it brings out genuine smiles and movement. A fun playlist turns a photo shoot into a memory-making moment.

Final Thoughts

Your family photo session doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be you. With the right prep and the freedom to be themselves, your kids and teens will show up as their best, truest selves. And that’s what makes the most meaningful photos. At Aldona G Photography, I’ll guide you every step of the way so the process feels easy and the result is something you’ll love forever

Ready to create joyful, stress-free memories with your family? Let’s plan a session that feels fun, relaxed, and totally you.