What to Do When Your Kids Act Up During a Photoshoot

(Because They Will 😅)

boy gets silly during family photo session with momBoy makes faces and has a great time during family photo session and mom rolls with it creating an epic family portrait collection

Let’s just say this upfront:

If your kids act up during your session…
You’re doing it right.

Kids aren’t meant to sit still, smile perfectly, and follow directions like little robots. They’re meant to move, feel, explore, and sometimes… completely ignore us.

And honestly? That’s where the magic usually lives.

But if you’re worried about how it will go, here’s how to handle those moments like a pro 👇

1. Don’t Panic (They Can Feel It)

The second kids sense stress or frustration… it escalates everything.

If you stay calm:

• They settle faster

• The energy stays light

• The session keeps flowing

Take a breath, smile, and trust that this is all part of the process.   Fall Family Portrait outdoor genuine happy | Sioux Falls Family PhotographerThat grin? That’s the magic you can’t pose—and exactly why candid moments matter most. When Kids Don’t Sit Still | Real Family Photography Moments Sioux Falls PhotographerBecause the best photos aren’t the perfectly posed ones—they’re the ones where your kids are completely, unapologetically themselves.

2. Let Them Be Little (Seriously)

The best photos rarely come from forced smiles.

They come from:

• Giggles

• Movement

• Curiosity

• Even a little chaos

Instead of fighting it, lean into it.

Those “wild” moments? They’re often the ones you end up loving the most.

3. Ditch the Pressure for Perfect Smiles

The more we say “say cheese”… the less real it becomes.

What works better:

• Talking to them

• Playing with them

• Letting them interact naturally

Genuine connection will always beat a forced smile.  Playful Family Session Ideas | Authentic Kids Photography Sioux Falls PhotographerIf your kids get silly during photos… good. That’s where the real memories live. Genuine Family Laughter | Lifestyle Photography Session Sioux Falls PhotographerThe laughter you didn’t plan always ends up being your favorite.

4. Bring Bribes… I Mean, Incentives 🍭

No shame here—this works.

Think:

• Small treats

• A favorite snack

• A promised reward after the session

It doesn’t have to be constant—but having it in your back pocket can help redirect when needed.

5. Take Breaks When Needed

Kids have limits.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause:

• Let them run

• Give them a snack

• Reset for a minute

A short break can completely turn the mood around.

6. Trust Your Photographer (This Is What We Do)

This might be the most important one.

I don’t expect perfect behavior.
I don’t need perfectly posed kids.

I know how to:

• Work with their energy

• Redirect their attention

• Capture moments in between the chaos

Some of the best images come when it looks like nothing is going “right.” Fall Family Portrait by the Water | Sioux Falls Family PhotographerThe kind of moment every parent hopes to freeze—arms wrapped tight, smiles effortless, and everyone exactly where they belong. Relaxed Family Session | Candid Outdoor PhotographyThis is your reminder—you don’t need perfect behavior for beautiful photos. You just need to show up.

7. Adjust Your Expectations (In the Best Way)

Instead of hoping for:
Perfect poses. Perfect smiles. Perfect behavior.

Shift to:
Real connection. Real emotion. Real moments.

That’s what actually creates images you’ll treasure. Playful Mom and Son Portrait | Lifestyle Family Photography Sioux Falls PhotographerBecause sometimes the best seat in the house is right on mom’s back.

The Truth?

Your kids don’t need to be perfect.

They just need to be themselves.

And years from now, you won’t remember:

• Whether they sat still

• Whether they smiled on command

You’ll remember:

• How they laughed

• How they held your hand

• How this season of life felt

Call to Action

If you’ve been putting off family photos because you’re worried about how your kids will behave—this is your sign to stop waiting.

I’ve got you. Chaos and all.

Let’s create a session that feels fun, relaxed, and real—and capture your family exactly as you are right now.

Click here to check availability and to view pricing guides.