How Can I Get My Kids to Sit for Pictures?? Help!!

As a photographer myself, I find that candy usually works. They will need it immediately, so go with something like Smarties since they do not make a big mess. I also agree with the previous post.... make sure they are well fed and rested before the pictures. It can also depend on your photographer. Take a few squeeky toys with you in case you need to help get their attention. Good luck!!

You might have to just resign to the fact that it might not happen. FOr the longest time, we could only get separate pictures of my 2 kids. They would sit well when by themselves, but together...forget it. Now that they are 3 and 5, at the daycare, when the photographers come there, they seem to sit for them pretty well, but I think it's because I am not there.
Good luck, but don't get upset if it doesn't happen. It's normal

I did not read all the posts, but someone suggested candy. That is absoultely ridiculous. If the photographer at my local Sears offered my children candy, I'd never go to her again. The LAST thing you want is a sticky mess...for your pictures, of all things. I'm not a "professional" photographer but it is my passion and I do a lot of picture taking on my own, so my children know what a camera is, and they know that mommy uses it a lot. When I take my children, especially when they were little and unable to sit very long, I'd tell them to sit so I could take the picture. Children, at least my children, were uncomfortable with someone other than mommy taking their picture so I'd have them believe that it was mommy who was taking the picture. I would stand behind the photographer and "pretend" that I was taking the picture. Did it always work? No, it did not, but for the most part, together, the photographer and I were able to fool my children into getting some very nice shots, often very candid ones. The photographer should allow you to work with him/her in a way that helps your children feel comfortable. Sometimes I have to sit very close to my youngest and support him with my hand until the very last moment, when the photographer gives me a cue, I remove my hand just before the picture is taken. My best advice is to make sure your child is not hungry during the session, have a drink of water on hand, and offer a special treat AFTER the session is over and hope for the best. There have been times that we just had to reschedule the appointment altogether because the tears caused red eyes and blotchy cheeks from the crying. It shouldn't be a tearful experience...but sometimes it is. Children are not predictable. Bring a favorite toy and offer to let the child hold this special toy in the picture, if that would calm him down.

Bribery? Trip to McD's, ice cream, candy, etc. if they sit still for the picture. My Mom got my 2 yr old duaghter to sit for her hair being braided with skittles. Whatever works for your little ones, you know best what they love the most. :> Make sure they are rested, fed and changed (if it applies) Try to make a schedule for the day so they know what they are doing and are expecting/ looking forward to taking the pictures. Possibly practice at home, in a fun/ silly way so they are looking forward to it and know what to expect.

And of course make sure it's not a full moon lol

Good luck!
A.

Hi!

I realize I'm a little bit late on this, but I wanted to add my two cents in too!

I'm a Photographer specializing in Maternity, Newborn, Family and Child Photography....plus I have an almost 5 year old little girl (so I have a bit of experience in this).

First off, going to a Chain Studio with children that age is always going to be a bit hectic. Chain Studio's are often under major time constraints....they have a set amount of time to work to get the pictures and THAT'S IT.

A Professional Photographer may cost a bit more, but they will always be able to spend the time it takes to get those great quality shots of your children.

Also, you mentioned getting them to cooperate for poses. At that age children REALLY do better with On-Location Sessions at a Park. You can really capture their little personalities and see their TRUE self...not just a studio pose.

I personally always try to play and talk with the children for a bit first....then once they are more comfortable with me I'll start taking pictures.

I hope that helps, if you have any questions please feel free to email me at ____@____.com

Yeah... I used to be a studio photographer... there aren't a lot of tricks for kids that age. If they aren't feeling it, they won't cooperate. Nothing you can do but keep trying. Candy... not a good idea. There are toys and props there that some kinds find intersting enough to sit still for a while and look at as long as you don't mind it being in the picture too. If they have favorite blankets, bring those for comfort. Please, please, do not bring your child to a photography studio after recently visiting the doctor. It does remind little kids of a doctor's office sometimes and will bring on the tears. Don't go close to naptime. Feed them first. Try not to be nervous or expect the worst before getting there. They will sense that and be nervous too.
Be friendly with the photographer so they will be less scared and more willing to smile. Mainly just be patient and keep trying. If they aren't having it and instead opt for the meltdown... don't wait it out. Reschedule.