"What if my kids don’t cooperate during our family photo session?" | Hornchurch family photographer

Summer photos in East London

If there’s one concern that almost every parent shares before a family session, it’s this:

“What if my kids don’t behave?”

Let me tell you something right now - they probably won’t. And that’s completely okay. In fact, it’s expected.

I’ve worked with families of all shapes and sizes, with kids who are shy, wild, clingy, hyper, grumpy, hilarious, or just plain unpredictable. The truth is, children are beautifully, wonderfully themselves - and your photo session is not about forcing them to sit still or smile on command. It’s about capturing your family just as you are, in all your glorious chaos.

The idea of a “perfect” session is a myth

When you imagine a photo session, you might be picturing perfect smiles, everyone looking in the same direction, calm children sitting sweetly on a picnic blanket… and then real life hits. One child’s hiding behind your legs, the other’s chasing the dog, and someone’s definitely refusing to wear shoes.

Here’s the good news: that is what makes your session special. Those little in-between moments, the way your toddler clings to you, the way your older one laughs mid-run, or even the way you look at each other when everything’s a bit mad - those are the moments you’ll want to remember.

I come prepared (and relaxed)

You don’t need to apologise if your kids aren’t “cooperating.” I’ve seen it all, and I always adapt the session to suit your child’s energy. Some need space to warm up, others need a game or two, and some just need to know it’s okay to be silly.

I guide gently, using prompts, play and patience - no awkward posing or pressure. Often the best images come when no one realises I’m clicking the shutter.

What can you do to help?

Here are a few simple tips that can make a big difference:

Don’t stress in front of your kids.

If you’re relaxed, they’re more likely to be too. If you’re anxious about behaviour, they’ll pick up on that.

Let go of perfection.

The magic is in the movement, the laughter, the hugs, the snack breaks. We’re not aiming for perfect - we’re aiming for real.

Bring a few little comforts.

Snacks, a favourite toy, or even a blanket can help settle little ones if they need a moment.

Trust me.

I’ve worked with countless children, and I promise we’ll get beautiful images - even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.

Your photos are about connection, not control

When you look back at these images years from now, you won’t care whether your toddler was camera-ready. You’ll remember their cheeky grin, the way they reached for your hand, or that big belly laugh when someone tickled them.

These are the moments that matter. And they don’t require perfect behaviour - just your family, as you are.