Natural smiles can be difficult to generate when photographing clients (or worse yet, your own kids!), but here are a few tricks from our ambassadors that are sure to get your subjects to loosen up and smile more naturally.
#1 – Everybody say “SQUEEZE.”
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
Get everyone in close together and have them squeeze, like a big group hug. This works best with families with young children, but I’ve use it with teenagers as well and it always ends up with laughing and genuine smiles. Almost everyone loves a good hug.
Amy of My Letter-Sized Life says,
It’s like someone flips on an awkward switch whenever a camera is pointed in the direction of either of my boys. But a good old squeeze always seem to do the trick.
#2 – Don’t be afraid to be silly!
Kim of Apple of Our Eye Photography says,
Capturing those natural, real, genuine smiles in children can be especially tough. It takes a lot of being silly. I’ve even been known to jump and fall down on the ground whenever necessary. I do find that asking parents to do something playful, over even playing peekaboo with them around a tree pretty much works every time!
#3 – Shower them with compliments.
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
Whether it’s on how amazing their hair looks or how beautiful their family is, most people graciously take compliments. When they know they’re looking good, it gives them more confidence, relaxes them a bit and leads to more natural smiles.
#4 – Turn that frown upside down!
Maryam of Hi + Hello Photography says,
Flip that kid and turn them upside down! 99% of kids will give you a delighted laugh or smile and a genuine moment.
#5 – Just go with the flow.
Marie-Pierre of Pretty Please says,
I try never to say “Look over here!” Or “Smile!” I just let my subject do whatever they’re doing and position myself so that I don’t have to give any instruction. My suggestion is to make yourself invisible and as little intrusive as you can. Also remember that it’s not a problem if the subject is not looking directly at you in the picture.
Amy of My Letter-Sized Life says,
Sometimes I like to just sit back and let my subject interact with nature or a favorite toy or even the members of their family. Most people, especially children, are more comfortable when they not being directed or feeling the pressure of performing for the camera.
#6 – Fake it till you make it.
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
I tell my clients to do a fake laugh and act like I’m hilarious. It starts off super cheesy, but usually turns into real laughs because of how ridiculous it is, and leads to natural smiles once the laughter subsides.
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