Candid Family Photography: Prompts for Natural Moments
Candid family photography starts with giving people something to do together. A game, a little movement, or something to look at can take the attention off the camera and make room for laughter and hugs.
Everyone looking at the camera can be a nice photo. But it isn't the only one that matters. I'm looking for the little moments they might not remember, too. Here are the family photography prompts and ways of helping kids feel comfortable that I use.
Family photography prompts that get everyone interacting
I'll ask a family to play ring around the rosies or follow the leader while holding hands. Sometimes I'll ask them to look for a plane or a bird in the sky.
These are simple things, but they give people something to pay attention to together. The camera doesn't have to be the center of everything.
Playful lifts can be another option when the parent and child are comfortable. Choose a game that fits the family in front of you.
Watch for laughter, hugs and the moments between poses
The game is a starting point. What I'm looking for is how they respond to each other.
Watch for the laugh, the hug, or the little interaction that might otherwise pass without anyone thinking much about it. Those are the moments I want to photograph, even when nobody is looking at me.
How I help shy kids feel comfortable during family photos
If a child is unsure, I'll typically ask if they want to take a photo on my camera. It gives them a chance to see that this can be fun.
For little ones, I sometimes play Cocomelon or their favorite show on my phone, placed on a phone mount. I also have a stuffed animal that goes around my lens. One of these methods usually works for me.
They are different ways to help a child engage. They don't all have to work for every child.
Does everyone need to look at the camera for a good family photo?
No. You can make space for the everyone-looking photo and still leave room for play. A laugh or a hug doesn't become less worth keeping because someone isn't facing the lens.
There's a point where you stop thinking about the camera. That's the point.
For more about my work, explore family, maternity and lifestyle photography or my education for photographers.