Playful Photos: Start with the Kids!
Photography that tells a story and really honors each person as they are is so much fun when it's filled with PLAY! While working on my class about Understanding Kids so that family photo sessions are better for EVERYONE, I've been studying a lot of big ideas, and the idea of play really hit home with me.
I read Playful by Cas Holman, and one of my key takeaways was that play is so natural for kids. Babies love peek-a-boo, then toddlers love imagination and "becoming" lions, then little kids create sculptures and whole storylines. My 12-year-old was playing a "piano" on her little sister's back just last week. I asked her, "What are you doing this for?" She said, "Just to do it!"
That's the point. Kids love play, and sometimes us adults are so focused on goals and achievement… what's the point?... that we lose sight of play for play's sake. So I'm doing a series about play, and I'll share a new tip every week.
This week is all about starting with the kids!
How we approach a new experience with kids has a huge impact on how they take it all in, how quickly they get comfortable, and how playful they can be. If they feel safe and secure, they're far more likely to show their true selves, to be curious, and then playful.
When the session starts, always show they matter by getting down to their level.
Talk with them about something that matters to them, the toy they're holding, something they're wearing.
Respect them and talk about the plan. What are we all doing here, and why?
Give them time to warm up, and let them know you respect them.
Show them your camera, the buttons, how it works.
Simply letting kids know that they matter, and that you're there for them and not just the grown-ups who set up this new experience, can have a big impact on helping them trust you and the situation.
Any idea what my second tip will be? Here's a clue... it's a key idea that photographers often say is a little tricky to navigate.
I’m doing this on a series on Instagram, and you can see it here.
Looking for a Seattle family photographer who starts every session with the kids? I'd love to meet your crew — book a session here, or follow along for the rest of the play series.
If you’re a photographer and want to grab my freebie about helping Parents in Toddler Photo Sessions, grab my free guide here.
