Tips for Getting Natural Smiles Out of Kids During a Session

If you've ever tried to get your kid to smile for a photo, you know the struggle. The second you say "smile for the camera," you get either a forced grin or total chaos.

As a Pittsburgh family photographer and mom of two, I've learned a few tricks over the years. Here's what actually works to get those real, genuine smiles during family photo sessions.

Don't Try to Force It

This is the biggest mistake parents make. Telling your kid to smile over and over usually makes things worse. They tense up, get self-conscious, or flat-out refuse.

Kids can sense when you're stressed about getting the perfect shot. And when they feel that pressure, they shut down or act out.

Instead, let the moment happen naturally. The best smiles come when kids forget the camera is even there.

Silliness Is Your Friend

Want to see a real smile? Make your kid laugh.

During sessions, I use silly voices, make weird noises, and act ridiculous. Does it make me look goofy? Absolutely. Does it work? Yep.

Parents can help too. Tickle your kid, play peek-a-boo with the toddler, or tell an inside family joke. Whatever makes your kid genuinely laugh, do that.

Embrace the silly.

Let Them Move Around

Sitting still and saying cheese is boring for kids. They need to move.

I always build movement into my Pittsburgh family photo sessions. We walk, run, spin, jump, and play. These active moments usually produce the best candid smiles.

When kids are busy having fun, they forget to be nervous or grumpy. That's when the magic happens.

Dancing = fun = real smiles

Bring a Comfort Item or Snack

A favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or toy can help a nervous child relax. We can include it in a few shots, then set it aside once they're comfortable.

Snacks are also your secret weapon. A little goldfish cracker break can turn a meltdown around fast. I always tell parents to bring snacks, especially for toddlers and preschoolers. Just avoid anything messy or that stains.

I'm also not above bribery - mini marshmallows are a personal favorite because they're not messy and blend in well with teeth.

Relax and Have Fun

Kids pick up on your energy. If you're anxious and worried about getting perfect photos, they'll feel it.

Take a deep breath. Trust the process. Remember that this is supposed to be fun.

When you relax and enjoy the moment, your kids relax too. And relaxed kids smile naturally.

You don't have to be looking at the camera to get a good picture.

Be Present and Enjoy It

Stop worrying about what everyone looks like. Just be with your family.

The sessions that produce the best photos are the ones where families actually connect with each other. When parents focus on their kids instead of the camera, beautiful moments happen.

My job is to capture those moments. Your job is to show up and be present with your people.

Lower Your Expectations

This might sound weird coming from a photographer, but hear me out. Not every kid is going to smile in every photo. And that's okay.

Some of my favorite family portraits include a kid making a silly face or looking away. Those photos tell the real story of your family right now.

Your three-year-old refused to look at the camera? That's very three-year-old behavior. Years from now, you'll look at those photos and remember exactly what this stage was like.

No smile, no bow, still very cute.

Take Breaks When Needed

If your kid is melting down, we pause. We take a snack break, run around for a minute, or just sit and breathe.

Pushing through when a child is upset never produces good photos. A five-minute break can completely reset the mood.

I'd rather take a short break and get great photos after than force smiles that don't feel real.

Trust Your Photographer

I've worked with lots of kids during family photo sessions in Pittsburgh. I've gotten pretty good at knowing when a child needs a break, when to be silly, and when to back off.

If I suggest we try something different or take a pause, trust that I'm trying to help. My goal is the same as yours: beautiful photos that capture your family authentically.

The Bottom Line

Natural smiles happen when kids feel comfortable, safe, and having fun. They can't be forced or faked.

As parents, the best thing you can do is show up relaxed and ready to play. Let go of perfection and focus on connection. The smiles will follow.

And if your kid doesn't smile in every single shot? That's life with kids. The photos will still be beautiful because they'll be real.

Ready to book your family photo session in Pittsburgh? I'd love to help you capture genuine moments with your family. Let's chat about what would work best for your crew.

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