Episode 37: 3 Quick Tips to Help Kids Smile
Howdy there! So this week, Kate shares her three tips to help kids smile! As photographers, we’ve all been in situations where we are trying our best to get those awesome natural smiles, but for whatever reason it just isn’t working. This quick three minute tips episode will give you a few ideas to put in your back pocket when working with shy or unhappy kids! These tips also work with fake smilers… we don’t want those forced, painful grins!! Check out Kate’s favorite ways to help kids smile!
Key Takeaways:
- Start with Parent Photos: Even if the parents don’t want to be in photos, if the kids are shy, I always make them start with a family shot. This works especially well for little ones because it helps them feel more relaxed and helps them warm up to me while sitting in mom or dad’s lap, instead of alone where they feel pressure! If the parents are hesitant (I always hear “but I don’t have makeup on!”) ensure them that these photos don’t “count” as part of their package… it’s just to help their kiddos warm up. 9 times out of 10 those parents will still want to see the family photo. 😉
- Talk to Them:Â Constantly chat with the kids as you take their photos. Ask their name, age, favorite animal, things like that. They’re automatically going to feel more relaxed. Once they’re comfortable with you, you can joke around with them a bit to try to get that natural giggle… say things like “Wait a minute. I forgot your name. Is it mommy?? No… is it daddy??? No… is it purple hippopotamus??!” This one usually generates some laughter or at least a small natural smile! There’s nothing more intimidating than staring into the camera of a silent photographer, so don’t be afraid to chat it up!
- Don’t Be Afraid to Get Silly: Funny noises, funny words, silly faces… these will usually work! Fart noises are always a win with little boys (and usually little girls too). Kids also love when you put random stuff on your head too; especially if it’s kinda gross (like seaweed). Step out of your shell & don’t be afraid to be totally ridiculous and goofy… anything for the shot, right??!
Hope you enjoyed Kate’s quick tips to help kids smile! Do you have any to share?? Feel free to share your favorite tips on our Facebook page!
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