Do you have a “challenging” kid?

You know….the one that puts you through the ringer often? If you have multiple children, chances are you know exactly what I’m talking about and it’s probably the second one….why is it always the second one? Anyway…if you do have one, and you’ve been putting off getting professional portraits because you don’t know what will happen - you will want to read this!

Kids are all unique

Some kids love having their photo taken, pose for the camera, follow direction and can just breeze through a photo session. Some kids are a bit more shy - they may take a little while to warm up, but once they do, well - the opportunity for smiling portraits are boundless. And some kids just follow the beat to their own drum. This is why Fotoplicity doesn’t put time limits on full sessions. Being able to “go with the flow” is so important when it comes to child-photography. Kids usually run the show and set the pace for a session, and that’s totally OK!

My child doesn’t behave well for photos - we’ll just get some family portraits done when they’re older.”

Honestly? That just sucks. Our challenging kids are just as wonderful and lovable as they will be in a year or two when they outgrow whatever phase they are in. And you know what? Those tough kids end up with some of the most amazing photos because they don’t hide their personality and it really shines though!

Since Fotoplicity has been around for about ten years, I’ve seen and photographed it all….

Terrible Twos & Tumultuous Threes

The twos and threes are difficult for most parents. This is when kids start realizing they can control things in their lives. They are learning independence! Of course that independence comes with lots of frustration, a short attention span and fuse.

PRO TIP: Go to a photographer who works with kids. Child photographers have a knack for finding ways to engage toddlers.  They play games, move quickly and are able to snag amazing photos on the fly.

Strong willed & Irritable Teens

It’s no secret - teens can be difficult. That independence thing shows up again in this season of life - and along side it doubts about their looks, issues with self confidence and overall awkwardness. Teens “tantrums” tend to show up as moodiness and unwillingness to look at the camera, smile or look up from their phone.

Here’s the thing - while you may just want to skip the family photos due to a sulky teenager, please think twice. A family portrait may be just what they need to build up that self-confidence, and if you hang that portrait on the wall it may just allow them to see how important they are to your family.

PRO TIP: Sometimes stepping away from the session is the best thing you can do for your teen. Let them work with the photographer and show their independence without you hovering and making suggestions. More often than not, teens show a different side of themselves when parents aren’t there…and remember, not all portraits need to be of smiling people. My favorite portraits are often more serious ones.

Special Needs

For children who may be on the spectrum or have physical disabilities, discussing circumstances prior to the session will allow for the experience to be tailored to your family’s needs.

PRO TIP: Whether it’s avoiding flash lighting, providing extra support to sit, find appropriate outdoor shoot locations, controlling noise levels, etc - work with your photographer to make things as comfortable as possible. Portraits celebrate all the wonderful nuances of your child and family!

THE BOTTOM LINE

Every child (even the toughest of the tough), are amazing. Capturing personalities, no matter what kind, is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Preserving memories are so important. Please don’t overlook family photos because you are afraid of a rough hour. Find a photographer who specializes in kids and that one hour may not be as stressful as you imagine.