This last weekend we got to have family pictures taken! Our oldest was unable to join us this time, but I am so happy to at least have a few pictures of the kids. I told the kids that all I wanted for Mother’s Day was a family picture. I decided this too last minute to hire someone so instead I dialed in the settings on my camera and my sister-in-law came over and snapped a few pictures of us and then I edited them.

Our Experience

Family pictures have always been a struggle for us. We have never had an experience taking family pictures without at least one of our children refusing to smile at the camera or having a melt down. There was even a time where Logan ran and hid in the car and we could not find him for 10 min!! I was mortified. I always spend so much time planning our outfits, getting their hair ready and finding time to get myself put together. When things begin to go downhill with their attitudes I panic!

As parents we tend to take on our child’s behavior as a reflection on our parenting. That is not the case at all! Especially when it comes to taking family photos! I am talking to myself as much as I am you. Taking family pictures can be stressful and kids can feel under pressure to preform. This leads to meltdowns, big emotions and them being unwilling to participate.

How to Take the Stress Out of Family Pictures

The biggest thing I have realized is that it is not just my kids who do this!! That is a huge relief! Letting go of the embarrassment, going in expecting and planning for a meltdown has changed the way I, not only go into our own family pictures, but also how I photograph other families as well. If your child struggles with family pictures, that’s okay! You can still get amazing pictures and you are still an incredible parent!

When I start a family session I always like to remind parents that if their children do not have a meltdown, they are in the minority. I have games, tools and tricks I use if a child begins to struggle. The biggest thing that helps though, is that I do not rush them. I allow time for meltdowns, comfort and redirection at every session. It does not have to be stressful! When there are no expectations of how a child should behave, the pressure is off! If your child loves to be attached to you, hold them. If they have a ton of energy, lets let them run. In the end, those candid photos of how your life truly looks are the ones you truly treasure forever.

Here are a few of the ones we were able to capture this last weekend, meltdowns and all.