The opening scene in the movie Cheaper by the Dozen is relatable to any parent who tried to get their kids photographed. The scene involves the family trying to take their Christmas card photographs in May. What ensues is bickering, insults, and an argument among 12 children who all refuse to be in the picture. Of course, most of us aren’t trying to get 12 children to be in a family picture or taking our Christmas pictures in May, but the sentiment remains the same. Taking pictures with the whole family can be a challenge.

Here are a few ideas to help make the day go more smoothly. 

Give Everyone A Role
You’d be amazed at how having responsibility can help your kids stay focused. The role doesn’t have to be complex, but it should make them feel like they’re a part of the photoshoot and not just a prop.

Get A Good’s Night’s Sleep
If you or your kids are tired, there may be tears or arguments. Avoid this by getting a good night’s rest the night before and having a good breakfast the morning of. If the kiddos are very young, letting them have a nap the day of the photoshoot can work wonders. 

Choose The Right Time
You want to ensure that you hire your photographer at a time when you’re not going to be running late, or your family’s going to be restless. If they have a studio, a mid-morning appointment should work. If the photoshoot will be outside, then going during golden hour (time of the day when light is at its best for photography) will give you images that can look like magic.  

Find A Good Photographer
Your photographer should have skills photographing kids and families. This way, they'll be able to communicate well with the kids and can make the experience fun for them ... which will result in getting better pictures. 

Bribe and Conspire
For some kiddos, now is not the time to be above bribery and shrewd parenting skills. Of course, don’t bring your bribes with you but be sure that they know there’s a treat in store for all who are well behaved.

Bring A Change of Clothes
If you’re photographing with younger kids, always bring a change of clothes in case of any mishaps. Don’t only include a change of clothes for the kids but yourself as well if you are wanting different looks in your pictures. 

Prepare The Night Before
Prepare your backup bag with all your photoshoot necessities the evening before. Also, iron all of the outfits the day before. Wrinkles don't look flattering on anyone. 

Choose A Familiar Location
Young kids can become distracted or restless if they feel uncomfortable. For this reason, you should choose a photo shoot location that is familiar to your family. If you can’t think of a suitable location, the backyard can do.

Embrace The Crazy
If you can’t get your family to work in harmony long enough to capture the perfect pose, embrace the crazy. There are so many unique and distinctive family poses that are just as cute and loving. But these poses don't require the posed appearance. Choose one of these instead of an orchestrated arrangement if you think you'll run into trouble coordinating your family. Sometimes, these candid images can some of the funniest. 

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If you are interested in booking a professional photoshoot, just contact Shaun Stockton Photography. You will receive great pro tips to help make your photo shoot experience one of the highlights of your year. Get portraits that you can cherish through the generations.

Let Shaun help you capture the moments that truly matter.

Specializing in Photography for:
• Seniors • Families • Models • Headshots • Personal Branding •

Serving NC in Winston Salem, Greensboro, High Point and Beyond