If you’re a parent, you know that getting kids to cooperate for family photos can feel like an impossible task. Will they sit still? Will they smile? Will they last more than five minutes before wanting a snack? The good news is, family photo sessions don’t have to be stressful—in fact, they can be fun, playful, and full of laughter!

As a family photographer in Bend, Oregon, I specialize in capturing genuine moments—the belly laughs, the goofy grins, and the sweet cuddles. Instead of forcing stiff smiles, I focus on natural interactions that keep kids engaged and excited throughout the session.

Here are some tried-and-true ways to make your family photo session fun and stress-free for your little ones!

1. Turn It Into an Adventure!

Kids love exploring, so instead of telling them we’re "taking photos," let’s make it an adventure! Whether we’re at a park, a forest, or a riverside location, I encourage little ones to run, jump, twirl, and explore. Some fun ways to engage them include:
✔ Pretending we’re on a treasure hunt
✔ Looking for the biggest pinecone or coolest rock
✔ Running toward Mom and Dad for the biggest hugs ever

When kids feel like they’re playing rather than posing, their energy becomes joyful and natural, making for the best photos!

2. Play Silly Games

One of my favorite ways to capture real smiles and laughter is by incorporating games into the session. A few fun prompts include:

🎭 Silly Faces Challenge – I’ll count to three, and everyone makes their goofiest face! (Then we do a “serious face” just for fun.)

🐒 Animal Walks – Walk like a bear, hop like a bunny, or flap like a bird!

🎈 Tickle Attack! – Parents, tickle your little ones and get ready for genuine giggles!

💨 The Secret Whisper Game – One sibling whispers a funny secret into the other’s ear—this always leads to adorable reactions.

These activities lighten the mood and create authentic, joy-filled moments that make your photos shine!

3. Bring a Favorite Toy or Stuffed Animal

If your child has a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or lovey, bringing it along can help them feel comfortable and happy. Plus, I can incorporate it into the session for a fun and personal touch.

A few ideas:

Let them hold their stuffed animal for a couple of shots
Toss their favorite toy in the air and capture their delighted reaction
If they’re feeling shy, their toy can help them feel safe and engaged

Bonus: These little keepsakes in photos will be so meaningful when looking back years later!

4. Let Them Lead the Way

Rather than forcing kids into a certain pose, I let them take the lead and show me what they love to do!

🚀 Does your kid love to jump, twirl, or climb? Let’s capture that!
💃 Are they more into spinning in circles or giving big hugs? Perfect!
🏃 If they’d rather run around than stand still, I’ll keep up with them and snap all the fun along the way!

This approach ensures that their personalities shine through in every photo.

5. Make It a Family Affair

If kids see that Mom and Dad are having fun, they’ll feel more relaxed too! Instead of standing stiffly and telling kids to "smile," I encourage parents to:
✔ Snuggle, hug, and interact naturally
✔ Toss little ones in the air or give them piggyback rides
✔ Whisper something funny in their ear
✔ Let them climb on your back or wrap around your legs

Your kids will feed off your energy, so if you’re relaxed and playful, they will be too!

6. Embrace the Chaos (It’s Part of the Fun!)

Let’s be real—kids will be wiggly, silly, and unpredictable during the shoot. And that’s okay! Some of the best moments come from the unexpected giggles, the silly expressions, or even a little sibling mischief.

Instead of worrying about everything going perfectly, let’s go with the flow! If your child needs a break, that’s okay. If they get the giggles, even better. I’m here to capture the real, unfiltered magic of your family.

Check out visitcentraloregon.com for some fun summer activities for the whole family. Photoshoots can positioned around these activities to get those carefree authentic moments.

Ready for a Fun, Stress-Free Family Session?

Family photos don’t have to be a battle—they can be an adventure! By focusing on play, laughter, and natural interactions, I’ll help you create beautiful, joyful images that capture your family just as they are.

📍 Serving Bend, Sunriver, Sisters, Redmond, and beyond!
📅 Let’s make some magic—book your session today!

Fun Ways to Get Kids Excited and Engaged During a Family Photo Shoot