10 Tips for Getting Kids to Smile Naturally in Photos: Secrets From a Pro

Tired of seeing your children smile for no reason when you take out the camera? It can be difficult to capture genuine smiles in photographs of children, but by using the right techniques you can bring out all their personality and joy. With years of experience as a family and child photographer, I have discovered some secrets to consistently get kids to smile. In this article I will share 10 tips that can help you capture precious moments.

Traditional methods of treatment can be challenging

Let’s first address some of the challenges that traditional methods face. When you use methods like saying “cheese”, it can result in forced, stiff smiles instead of genuine expressions. We need to use alternative techniques in order to capture your child’s true personality.

Proven Techniques

1. Play the “I’m Going to Get You!” Game. This game involves approaching the child slowly while wiggling your finger, and then briefly tickling him. Anticipation of being tickled can lead to genuine laughter and smiles.
2. Peekaboo – Engage younger kids with a game behind the camera. Surprise and anticipation can bring out natural smiles and giggles.
3. “Daddy Smells:” Say something unexpected, or even slightly inappropriate, to get people laughing. Children love to laugh at silly jokes, and they are more likely smile when you make them laugh.
4. Physical Play: Participate in playful activities such as tossing your child in the air, or making funny sounds. Photographs can capture genuine moments of joy and laughter created by physical interaction.
5. Tickling – A gentle tickle will work wonders to get a genuine smile from a child who is ticklish. Make sure the child is comfortable and feels safe.
6. Encourage belly laughs: Invite your children to belly chuckle and join them in. Genuine smiles are often accompanied by moments of joy and laughter.
7. Reverse psychology: Challenge children to not smile by using reverse psychology. The playful approach may result in spontaneous smiling as the children try to resist.
8. Share Jokes: Have a few jokes that are suitable for children on hand to brighten the mood. They will also make you laugh. Children are always happy to hear silly jokes or puns.
9. Play Games: Involve children in games and activities that are interactive, which will capture their attention. This will spark joyous moments. Fun and laughter is guaranteed, whether it’s playing Simon Says or competing in a friendly competition.
10. No Smile Required. Not all photos must feature a smiling face. Capturing candid expressions and moments, whether playful or serious, can be just as compelling and memorable.

Bonus Tips

• Experimenting with expressions other than smiles can be a great way to capture a variety of emotions. Beautiful and meaningful photographs can be created from genuine moments of surprise, curiosity or contemplation.
• Direct the attention of the child away from the camera to get more candid shots. Encourage interaction with siblings, pets or favorite toys in order to capture moments of genuine connection and joy.

Author’s Experience

Years of experience as a professional photographer who specializes in family and children portraits have helped me to perfect these techniques. I’ve seen first-hand how genuine smiles can bring joy to families.

The conclusion of the article is:

These tips will help you capture genuine smiles and moments with your kids. Enjoy your childhood, be patient and embrace spontaneity. This is where you will make the best memories.

These techniques will help you capture moments of laughter and joy that you can cherish for many years. Enjoy your photography!