You are ready to have your children photographed. They have the perfect outfit, the perfect hair, maybe even the perfect prop, then all of a sudden for no reason whatsoever (other than to make you age 5 years) they throw a fit. They cry uncontrollably, they refuse to look at you, they may throw themselves on the ground, or heck they might do all of the above. You start sweating, you are mortified, but most importantly you really need a drink. Has this ever happened to you? Yes? Whew, me too!! Last month, in fact!
Here I was trying to be a good Mom and wife and take my own kids for a photo shoot for Daddy's Father's Day present when my two year old throws a tantrum. For no reason!
Well, because I'm determined (yes, that's what I'm calling it), I decided to wait it out so I could eventually get the pictures I wanted. While waiting, I photographed it!
Here are a few tips for Mom's and Dad's when they take their kids to have their pictures taken...
1. First and foremost don't expect your children to be able to do everything you want them to do. I've had far too many photo shoots where parents want to try 3 different props, 10 different outfits, 15 different poses, in 5 different locations. That is far too much to ask of your children...especially if they are little guys.
2. Be flexible! If one idea isn't working, try something else. After my son finished showing me his dissatisfaction with the situation, I changed things up and asked if he wanted to go see a fountain. That immediately turned his little pouty face happy again and I was able to get some more good pictures.
3. Be patient! This goes with number two. If things aren't going right, try not to get frustrated and breathe. When you are stressed your children can sense it and they will become stressed.
4. HAVE FUN!! Let kids be kids. Many of the best photos I've taken are when kids are being kids. Playing, swinging, laughing, exploring. Capturing who they are at that moment in time will produce amazing images that you will cherish forever.
