When it comes to family photos, parents often ask: Should I bribe my kids to cooperate? The short answer? Do whatever works best for your family! Some kids light up at the promise of an ice cream treat afterward, while others couldn’t care less about a reward. There’s no right or wrong way to approach it—but there is one thing I highly recommend avoiding.
The One Mistake to Avoid: Mid-Session Threats
We’ve all been there—you’ve promised a special treat, and suddenly, the session isn’t going as planned. The kids are getting wiggly, and in a moment of frustration, you hear yourself saying:
“If you don’t smile, no treat!” or “You won’t get that toy if you don’t listen!”
I get it! Family photos are an investment, and you want those perfect shots. But here’s the thing—threatening to take away a reward mid-session actually works against us. It adds pressure and stress, making kids feel like they have to perform instead of just being themselves. And trust me—forced smiles aren’t the ones you’ll cherish most.
The Real Trick? Keep It Light & Fun!
Instead of focusing on “perfect” poses, focus on connection. Some of the best images come from playful, relaxed moments—tickle fights, silly faces, and snuggles. Here are a few ways to set your session up for success:
✅ Hype up the experience. Instead of saying, “We have to take pictures,” try something like, “We’re going to play, laugh, and have fun while someone takes our pictures!” Kids feed off your energy, so keep it positive!
✅ Embrace the chaos. Let go of the idea of perfectly posed and lean into beautifully real. If your toddler wants to twirl instead of sit still, let’s capture that joy!
✅ Engage, don’t instruct. Instead of telling kids to “stand still and smile,” interact with them. Whisper a silly secret, play a game, or give them a big bear hug. The more fun you’re having, the better the photos will be!
So… Bribes or No Bribes?
A little incentive can be great motivation—just keep it light! If a treat at the end of the session helps everyone stay excited, go for it! But once we start, relax and let your kids just be kids—wiggles, giggles, and all.
At the end of the day, the best family photos are the ones that capture love, laughter, and connection—not forced smiles. So let’s make it fun, embrace the imperfect, and create memories you’ll truly treasure!
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