... and How To Get The Best Photos Of Them!
Letting Children Be Themselves Leads to Better Photos
We’re often asked by parents, “What if my child isn’t happy on the day? They don’t usually like having their photo taken — what if they have a meltdown during the session?”
Our answer is always the same: don’t worry.
This is exactly why we love outdoor, natural-style photography. Being outside gives children the space and time they need to relax and feel comfortable with us. There’s no pressure to pose or perform — just room to play, explore, and be themselves.
At Little Stories Photography, we don’t chase stiff poses or forced grins.. and there’s a powerful reason why. The most magical photos aren’t the ones where children look at the camera on command, they’re the ones where kids are simply being themselves. That’s where real personality and joy shine through.
✨ Natural Moments Outshine Posed Ones
When children are relaxed, curious, and free to explore, you get photos that are the real them. Natural candid shots — children playing, laughing, or interacting with their surroundings — tell a story rather than any forced pose ever could.
This is exactly the approach we take. We create a calm, play-based environment where children can roam around, be curious, and forget they’re even being photographed.. Which leads to fun photos every time!
Why Letting Children Be Themselves Works So Well
1. Authentic expressions beat fake smiles
Kids have a natural spark — tiny laughs, big belly laughs, cheeky glances- These moments feel real, and parents love seeing that true essence captured.
2. Relaxed sessions create better memories
Photoshoots don’t need to feel like a test. When children aren’t stressed about where to stand or how to behave, they enjoy the experience — and that makes a huge difference to the end result.
3. Play unlocks personality
Games, movement, laughter — these all bring out a child’s character. Whether it’s exploring a field, chasing bubbles, or just giggling with a sibling,
these moments are pure gold for photos that tell a story.
4. Candid over classic: the future of children’s photography
Traditional studio portraits still have their place, but modern family photography leans into authenticity.
Parents are choosing photos that reflect real connection and emotion — not stiff, artificial poses.
How We Help Children Be Themselves in a Photoshoot
At Little Stories, we believe every child has their own personality and it deserves to be shown. Our relaxed sessions help children feel comfortable, playful, and free, giving us the space to capture their true smiles and unique personality traits.
Here’s what we focus on:
- Fun first — We make the session feel like play, not a chore.
- No pressure — No stiff instructions, no rush.
- Real connection — We let kids interact naturally with parents & the environment.
- Storytelling images — Photos that show who they are, not just what they look like.
- Movement over posing — We often encourage children to run into their parents’ arms or run towards us, which naturally brings out real smiles, giggles and joy.
- Child-led moments — We follow your child’s lead, whether that means exploring, cuddling, spinning, or taking a quiet moment.
The Result? Photos You’ll Cherish Forever
Photos are more than pretty pictures — they’re memories you’ll look back on for years to come. When kids are being genuine, the emotional connection in the image deepens.
Those photos don’t just look good — they feel good.
In capturing those real, joyful, unscripted moments, you’ll discover something remarkable: you don’t just preserve photos — you preserve a sense of childhood itself.
So don't worry about how they will be on the day, leave that to us! We will make sure they all have enough time to settle and warm up and let's have some fun together!
