It may feel like summer break just started for your kids, but it’s the first day of school for some parts of the country, and others will be following over the next few weeks. That means your Instagram feed will be full of back-to-school photos as hopeful moms and dads try to capture their little ones as they head into another school year.
We’ve all seen enough of these to know that some kids despise this tradition and it shows on their faces, no matter how much their parents try to get them to smile for the picture. Photographer Kate Miller-Wilson understands the struggle and shares these tips to help snap the first-day-of-school pics you dream about taking.
- Let the kids know the photos are coming - Kids appreciate a little advanced warning, no matter how old they are. Give them a head’s up that you’ll be taking their picture and tell them what kind of photos you want to take so they’re prepared.
- Give them options on the timing - The morning of the first day of school can be hectic, emotional and stressful, so it may not be the ideal time to try to force kids to pose and smile. This can make them more cooperative and that’s better for everyone.
- Come up with some great bribes - This photographer says her experience has shown her that you’ll get better pics if you pay your models. This applies to your kids, too, so talk to them about what they might want and strike a deal. Consider incentives like:
- Fancy school supplies
- A new school outfit or accessory
- A special first-day-of-school lunch treat
- Screen time
- An after-school outing to a favorite arcade or park
- The chance to skip a chore
- Let them suggest some photo ideas - The kids may be more into the photo op if they can choose how to pose. Maybe they want a goofy-face picture or to include the family pets, so why not try their ideas. They may end up being the best ones you take.
- Set a time limit and let them watch the clock - Take what you can get, even if it’s five minutes.
Source: Yahoo⠀