Do you want positively fun photos of your children – images that really show off their personality? Do you want the same thing in a family photo shoot? Here are some tips to make it happen.
Let the children play. That’s right. It’s a simple formula but sometimes hard for parents to do. Instead of fussing about how they look or worrying about them getting sand on their clothes, let them just be kids. Sure, it helps to focus that 
energy a little.
And the best way to do that is to join in on the fun. So, go ahead and let your own inhibitions down. Forget about the camera and try to remember what it was like to be a 5-year old, a toddler, or even an 11-year old. Don’t worry about your double-chin, your own smile or even us. Get down on the grass, the sand or the floor and play with your kids.
For formal shoots, let your kids pick a color to wear, sunglasses for everyone, or whatever props they think will be fun to include. It’s their shoot too.
Engage your children on their level, no matter how you break the ice. Like many photographers, at Tropical Focus we ca
rry a bag of props ranging from princess crowns and pirate gear, bubbles and frisbees. But sometimes all it takes as a well placed tickle or a loud noisy kiss on a cheek. Get your kids attention. Admittedly, your kids may be taken back a bit if you never play with them. But after a few minutes they’ll get use to it and they’ll love it. So, forget about the camera. Enjoy your children. Your photographer will know just when to capture the image.
Play too - be in the moment with them. It’s important to be at eye level with your kids while you are playing. Hovering can make them nervous or wary and always focuses on your differences – not your shared fun. Follow their lead and let them see you can laugh with them, whether they are burying you in the sand on a St. John beach, or trying to braid your hair, or playing with their favorite stuffed animal. Forget the camera or your watch, or your troubles and dance with them. The photographer will catch that perfect smile on your face. These are the moments of your life – enjoy them.
Be spontaneous and show them how. You do not need to give up your formal photo shoot dreams to have fun photos too. After the posing, jump into the water with your clothes on and invite the kids to join in.
If you’re not that adventurous, share a surprise with them. Make it fun – have them solve a riddle or dig for buried treasure. Or, just whip out a gallon of their favorite ice cream with plenty of toppings and whip cream. Don’t worry – the photographer will do the rest, so ignore him (or her). You just need to get into the moment with your kids and have fun. 
All of this will drive your professional family photographer a little bit crazy and out of control. Really. And they will love every single minute of it. Really. It’s child’s play and all in a days work.
