Can capturing great family photos with young children really be achieved without tears? As an experienced photographer and trained Reggio-Inspired Educator, I want to let you know that it is possible! Here are seven tips I offer my clients when seeking a tear-free outdoor, family photo session.

1. Keep It Familiar - As many little ones are often scared when facing a strange person taking their photos, it’s important to stick to familiar faces and places. It’s important to stick with a familiar photographer and make sure the photo shoot is held in a familiar setting, like their very own backyard or a local park your family frequents.
2. Focus on Activity - It’s best to capture candid photos as the little ones are naturally engaged in an activity, like playing with a favorite toy or pet. Natural outdoor play often captures expressions of joy and wonder, perfect for documentary style family photography.
3. Start Early - Young children can get very cranky when overtired, but their best expressions often appear first thing in the morning. Therefore, plan for your photo shoot to start early enough for those happy moments to happen.
4. Embrace Calming Music - Teachers often use calming classical music to create an inviting atmosphere. Why not incorporate music during your outdoor family photo shoot?
5. Bring Snacks - Little ones especially need snacks to keep up their energy between shots. Bringing some of their favorite nutrition on the day of the shoot can help keep them happy throughout the photoshoot.
6. Give Breaks - Taking breaks between photos will keep the energy of the shoot happy and relaxed and allowing the child to take a break when they need it can help prevent any tears.
7. Keep it Short & Sweet - Aim for the photo shoot to last for no more than an hour and ensure there are not too many directives for the little one. The most beautiful documentary style family photos is when the child feels free to express their natural selves.
Of course, It’s important to remember that every child is different and that even children can have hard days. Sometimes children may need some extra love, snuggles, patience and support to make for a fantastic family session!

They had me at Alligator boots. I love finding something to connect with when I’m meeting new clients! David had these kick-butt alligator boots that made me immediately think of my S.O. James.
​“Is it weird if I take a photo of your boots to send to my S.O.? He’s a boot junkie,” I say.
They laugh and encourage me to do so.
Shahana and David met each-other in high-school and have been together for about 10 years and are ready to tie the knot! They defeated the odds and managed to grow together instead of apart. Shahana, David and I worked as a team to communicate what we wanted out of this photo while having fun! My favorite part was either making Shahana and David run to eachother and making him pick her up or having a dance party overlooking the water. A Bullet for My Valentine anyone? Totally brought me back to my grunge/punk phase in Middle School.
Let me just say that the rose gardens at Lynch park are so stunning this time of year! The flowers in bloom are so beautiful and the view of the water and boats just bring an extra level to the peacefulness of this park!
Thank you guys for letting me capture your special day! I loved working with you both!

Megan and John had scheduled their family photo session MONTHS in advance. As our session drew closer and closer I began to worry when the forecasters said it would rain. This being New England, we knew anything could happen in the space of a week so Megan and I crossed our fingers and agreed to wait until Friday to decide whether or not to postpone.
The sun came out and the wind blew at gusts of 50+ mph on that day in Bristol Rhode Island. James and I came prepared with a trash bag to put under our blankets to keep it from getting wet. Megan and John were willing to make it work and we did!
Take a look at the photos below!

aftwr we wrapped up our session we went our separate ways to enjoy the sun set, post-storm sunsets are always the best!