Children can be the most challenging and by far the most fun subjects to photograph. You just never know what they’re going to do next! My favorite age is right around 1.5 to 3 years old. Every child is different as to how they warm up to you, what you can say or do to get them to laugh and be themselves, but I’ve found a few tricks of my own that always seem to help!

Hats are great props! And they can be so handsome and cute.

1. Props! I love having props and items for kids to explore as they’re first getting comfortable in front of the camera. It gives them something to do, something to explore, and it gives me the opportunity to capture that aha! moment as they discover something new.
   

   Playing with leaves and in this case, playing hide and go seek with Grandma to get those great smiles!

2. Play a game. Specially when you’re outside for a session, playing hide and go seek, simple peek a boo games, sometimes a little running or chasing (depending on the space and how excited the child is, we don’t want to be chasing them a half mile, haha) – that’s when I can capture those big smiles and laughs. It also associates great memories with having their picture taken so hopefully as they grow up they think of getting their picture taken as a fun experience, not something to fear or dread.
   

   A little tickling from mom and dad also helps everyone relax a little and enjoy their session!

3. Tickling. This is often what I ask parents to do as we get further in the shoot and we’re starting to get a little tired, we’ve exhausted the interest in props or games, but we have a few more minutes and we can get a few family shots as well!

After your session not only will you have beautiful photos with all the crazy faces your kid makes (and plenty of very happy smiles!), but also great memories of the time spent together capturing those moments.

Christy