Upstate NY Photographer and Designer

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Sarah, Ryan, Hudson and Neva for a little over a year, and was so thrilled to photograph them for the second year in a row. Not only are they the sweetest family; they have two kids who are at the age where they could roll their eyes at the silly things I make them do. But you know what my favorite thing is? Now that we’re all getting to know each other, the kids know me and my sassy personality, and I know theirs. So I started the session telling Neva: “you know I’m going to make you do silly things to make you laugh!” And she was such a doll that she went along with it all lightheartedly. By the end, we were all doubled over with laughter! Here are a few tips for my families with older kids:

Tips and Posing Prompts for Families with Older Kids

We start the session by building camaraderie. Kids appreciate when you’re straightforward with them! So I try to say “Okay, you guys. I know photoshoots might not be your favorite thing, but bear with me, and we’ll get it done as quickly as we can!”
Then, we actually get it done quickly. Stay true to my word helps build rapport and trust with them, and they’ll be more inclined to keep their energy through the session. I study ahead of time and have a strong workflow, so you can get the same number of photos in a short period of time that you would with a longer session.
“Hug your brother like you love him!” Though it might start out with wrestling and giggles, the sweet candid hug happens in the middle of the beautiful laughter!
“Do you guys want to see how these are turning out? Come behind my camera and let’s take a photo of mom and dad.” The kids can step out of the frame for a breather, and they get to see how good they’re looking. Bonus: we get some photos of just mom and dad, and the kids feel involved!
When you book your session, I send a questionnaire and we talk ahead of time. I ask what jokes or questions might make them giggle. (I’m not ashamed to admit that at my own recent session, we yelled “POOP!” Like, a lot.)

Sessions with older kids are some of my favorites! It helps when I’m fortunate enough to build a relationship with a family through the years, and the kids get to know me (like the sweet Sassamans!) When we’re able to get to know each other’s personalities, everyone is more comfortable, and the session is the most enjoyable for all!