Tired of saying “smile” a hundred times? Here’s what actually works

We’ve all been there…standing behind the camera, desperately waving, pulling silly faces, and maybe even offering up a chocolate bribe just to get a real, natural smiles from kids.

But here’s the thing: kids don’t need coaxing (or sweets) to flash their most joyful grins. They just need to feel at ease, have fun, and be in the moment.

As a family photographer who spends a lot of time capturing little personalities, I know that the best smiles are the ones that happen naturally. So, if you’re wondering how to get natural smiles from your kids without turning into a one-person circus act, here are some tried-and-tested tips.

Create a Relaxed Atmosphere for Natural Smiles

Kids pick up on our energy, so if you’re feeling tense about getting the “perfect shot,” chances are, they will too. Instead of making the camera the focus of the moment, make the experience the focus.

Think of it as a playdate rather than a photoshoot, whether it’s a family photoshoot or just a quick photo at home. The more fun and relaxed they feel, the more natural their expressions will be.

Get Them Moving

If there’s one thing I know about kids, it’s that they rarely sit still for long! Instead of asking them to pose, encourage movement…running to a parent for a big hug, twirling in their favourite dress, or jumping as high as they can. Action creates real moments, and real moments create real, natural smiles.

Plus, giving kids permission to move can help prevent the dreaded stiff, forced grin. Win-win!

Make It a Game

Let’s be honest, if a child thinks something is a game, they’re automatically more interested.

Try playful prompts like:

🌿“Who can pull the silliest face first?”

🌿“Let’s see who can whisper the funniest secret to Mum!”

🌿“On the count of three, everyone jump as high as they can!”

Before they know it, they’re laughing, engaged, and completely unaware that they’re being photographed.

Encourage Connection For Those Natural Smiles, Not Just Posing

Some of the best natural smiles come from moments, not instructions. A shared giggle between siblings, a whispered joke from Dad, or a tickle fight with Mum…these natural interactions create photos that truly feel like your family.

So, instead of saying, “Smile for the camera,” try encouraging closeness, cuddles, and silly little moments that bring out their joy.

Use Their Imagination

Kids live in a world of make-believe, so why not bring that magic into the photos? Ask them to:

🌿Pretend they’re superheroes flying through the air.

🌿Imagine they’re sneaky spies on a secret mission.

🌿Roar like a lion or flutter like a fairy.

When they’re lost in a world of fun, the expressions that follow will be pure joy.

Be Playfully Unpredictable

Want to grab their attention? Do something unexpected! Whether it’s a funny noise, pretending to trip, or making a ridiculously silly face, a little surprise can go a long way.

You could dramatically gasp in horror at imaginary spiders, or suddenly sneeze so loudly that kids burst into giggles. The more playful you are, the more natural the reaction.

Let Them Take the Lead

Kids love feeling in charge, so let them! Ask them how they want to pose or let them direct the next shot. If they feel like they’re part of the process rather than just being told what to do, they’ll be far more engaged, and excited to smile!

Embrace the Chaos – That’s Where Natural Smiles Live

If your child is bouncing off the walls, climbing on Dad, or dissolving into giggles instead of standing still, embrace it.

Some of the best, most cherished photos come from the beautifully imperfect moments. A cheeky grin, an unexpected belly laugh, or a wild burst of energy…these are the memories that truly capture their personality.

So, there you have it… natural smiles without bribery, negotiations, or excessive amounts of waving behind the camera.

Next time you’re after a joyful, natural expression, just remember: play, connect, and let them be themselves. The best smiles aren’t forced…they’re felt.

And if you’d love a stress-free photoshoot where your kids can just be themselves, I’d love to capture those moments for you! Let’s make it happen. 💛

Want help capturing your child’s real smile? I’ve got you.
I’ll guide you through a calm, playful session where your little one can feel at ease—no awkward posing, just natural smiles and genuine moments you’ll want to hold onto.
Click here to get in touch and let’s start planning your session.

Let’s Stay Connected

P.S. Want to see more fun family photos and behind-the-scenes moments from my sessions? Come and say hi over on Instagram @amyclairebarnes_photography – it’s where I share recent shoots, little glimpses of everyday magic, and lots of inspiration for your own relaxed family photoshoot. ✨