3 Tips For Capturing Your Kids' Irresistible Smiles (Without Having Them Say Cheese)

Updated on 1/29/2015 at 4:51 PM

Kristy Dooley | Clickin Moms

The following post was written by photographer Kristy Dooley of Clickin Moms. Clickin Moms is a members-only community of over 16,000 photographers who are passionate about capturing their lives, their clients, their families, and their worlds more beautifully. Dooley shares some tips for getting great smiles out of your kids.

As a mom of two little girls, there isn't much that warms my heart more than capturing a sweet smile on camera of my kiddos. It seems that at one point or another, all children learn the dreaded "cheese" and know to flash a corresponding cheesy smile at any camera pointed their way.

I'd like to challenge you to think beyond the world of "cheese." Taking a little extra time to interact with your children before taking their picture can evoke more genuine smiles from them. Here are a few fun and easy tips to put your children at ease and make documenting those irresistible smiles fun for everyone. Any camera or phone will do!

Put your camera down for a minute and just talk to them.

Instead of "Say Cheese!" try "What was the funniest thing that happened at school today?" or "What are you most looking forward to this Winter?" By letting them engage naturally you're much more likely to capture the classic expressions that you know and love.

Create a series.

Over time I've discovered that when the timing (and mood!) is right I can quickly capture all of the expressions my girls usually make in a few minutes.

Create a series (part 2).

Ask them questions to elicit the expression you’re hoping for. "What would you do if it started snowing right now?" "What's your favorite book?" "What do you want to be when you grow up?" "What's the funniest thing that has ever happened to you?"

Create a series (part 3).

My personal favorite line is "Don't you dare smile at me!" The reverse psychology works amazingly well, and I get the best smiles every time.

Create a series (part 4).

Be prepared to document the outtakes as well. Often times those might end up being your favorites.

Get your children involved.

If I'm after a portrait or need some cooperation for a photo I always ask permission first. I've discovered that by asking permission, a feeling of respect is created, and willing participation is more likely to happen.

Get your children involved (part 2).

As with many aspects of parenting, giving a choice usually makes kids happier. In this case, the choice is between two situations that still work for the picture you want to take! "I'd like to take a picture of you. Would you like to take it inside or outside?" Or "I'd like to take a photo of you doing something you love right now. Do you have any ideas?" By letting them feel in charge you're more likely to have them participate happily.

Finally.

Most importantly, keep that camera accessible! You just never know when those perfectly irresistible smiles might appear.