part of my workflow prior to each session is to craft a shot list of family photography poses that fits each unique family. This list is customized for the amount of people in your family and how old your kiddos are. I start with my favorite poses for the age of your kiddos; then I head to pinterest if I need more inspiration. This doesn’t mean that we are married to this list when we get to your session! I always keep in the back of my mind some alternative poses depending on your personalities and how willing your kiddos are to participate. Here are my five favorite family photography poses that I include in every session for young kids. You can find a detailed description of the family photography experience on my info page!
1. Snuggle up for a tickle fest
This prompt is used towards the end of the family photography session when everyone is “warmed” up to the camera. I usually find a good spot for the family to sit, and sometimes bring along a leather mat if there isn’t a good spot onsite. Then I ask the family to snuggle up for a big hug, and then announce that its a tickle war! I love this prompt because it always results in big belly laughs and genuine smiles!
2. swing between mom and dad
This is a favorite family photography pose for young kiddos that are a little leery about photos or kids that are super active. I like to use this prompt at the beginning of the session to get everyone relaxed. Here’s the setup; first I tell the family that we’re going to take a little walk. Then I ask the little ones to hold mom and dad’s hand and we do a big countdown and jump.
3. Walk together and bump into each other
I’m sure you’ve noticed the trend here… the best family photography poses include MOVEMENT. Movement results in more natural images and more authentic moments. Prompts that include movement also keep kiddos from getting board or impatient which is always a win! The setup for this prompt usually follows the swing prompt. I ask the family to hold hands and walk towards me and bump into each other. Usually I add something funny in there like, “you’ve just done tequila shots downtown!” or if its young kids I say “you just got off the spin ride at the fair and you’re dizzy!”
4. hold your baby and sway back and forth
This pose is for a parent and young kiddo. I especially love this pose when mom decides to wear a dress for their session because it creates really visual movement. Swaying back and forth is also a movement that is really comforting to little ones so it really helps when your baby or toddler is feeling overwhelmed by the session.
5. kneel down next to your kiddos
I love this pose for the vantage point. Young kids almost always look up to see the camera and I prompt the parents to look at their little one. You can really see the love and pride in this pose and its extra special when a kiddo is still learning to walk or stand on their own. The set up for this prompt is usually for the kiddo to find something interesting on the ground and have them show their parents. Then I make a funny sound to get the kiddos to look up at the camera!
There ya have it! my five favorite family poses that Implement on my Central Oregon Family Photography sessions! head over to the blog page to find more tips and tricks for your session!
