How to Capture Your Child’s Personality in a Photoshoot

Tips for Playful and Authentic Moments

One of my favorite things about photographing kids? You never quite know what you’re going to get—wild giggles, sweet shyness, surprise dance moves... and I love every second of it.

The goal of a child’s session isn’t perfectly posed photos—it’s honest, playful, joy-filled images that show who your little one really is right now. Whether they’re silly, serious, cuddly, or totally on the move, their personality is the magic.

Here are a few simple tips to help bring out the real them during your photoshoot:

Let Them Be Themselves

It’s tempting to want the “just right” smile, but the best photos happen when kids feel free to be who they are. That might look like twirling, talking about dinosaurs, or climbing on dad’s shoulders—and that’s okay!

Before Every Session…

I always ask, “When is your little one most happy?”

From there, we pick a date and time that fits them, and sometimes that even means an early morning session around 7:30 a.m. so they’re well-rested, fed, and ready for fun. Happy kiddos make for the best, most natural photos—and that’s always the goal!

Dress for Comfort (and Confidence)

Choose outfits that feel good and let your child move easily. If they hate tight collars or itchy tags, skip them! Soft fabrics, favorite colors, and even worn-in shoes can go a long way in helping kids feel relaxed and confident.

Bonus tip: Bring a backup outfit just in case—we’ve seen it all. And if your little one is newborn - 18 months I have a curated selection of outfits available for use!

Build in Wiggle Room

We keep things light and flexible. Your session isn’t on a timer—it’s on your child’s timeline.
Sometimes we need a snack break, a dance party, or a moment to warm up. No rush, no pressure. When kids feel safe and unhurried, their real personalities always shine through.

Let’s Make It Fun

Think peekaboo, silly sounds, bubbles, races, tickle fights—you name it. I always bring a few tricks up my sleeve, but you’re the expert on what makes your child laugh. Let’s team up to turn the session into an adventure.

Want to bring their favorite toy or blankie? Go for it. Those “comfort items” sometimes make the best memories.

Keep Expectations Real

It’s totally okay if your child doesn’t sit still or smile on command. Honestly? That’s kind of the point. We’re here to celebrate this real, wild, beautiful stage—not smooth it out.

Some of the best moments happen between the planned ones.

Trust the Process

I’ve photographed a lot of kids—and I promise, even the wiggly ones, the shy ones, the wild ones… we always get something beautiful.

If you're relaxed and having fun, your child will feel it too. Let’s keep it easy and trust that the magic will come.

Your Child, Just as They Are

Time moves fast. Their tiny quirks and big emotions deserve to be remembered—not just the polished stuff. I’d love to help you freeze this moment in a way that feels real, fun, and completely them.