As a mom, you’re the chief documentarian of your child’s early years. Every giggle, every milestone, every fleeting moment is a treasure worth preserving. But how do you turn these everyday moments into beautiful photographs that tell a story and evoke emotions? Here are 20 creative ideas to help you elevate your photography game and create timeless images of your young children!
Before we begin, remember that natural light can make all the difference in photography. Look for soft, diffused light for flattering portraits, such as near a window or outdoors in the shade. Try to avoid harsh midday sun as it can create unflattering shadows.
(1) The basic headshot
This pose is about as simple as it gets, which can be a very good thing when it comes to active kiddos! Engage with your child and strategically have them standing and looking at you directly. Then add a slight turn to their body so they are at a 45 degree angle.
(2) Lying down or resting
Those quiet moments are fleeting in the early years! Try to capture your child lying down having a sweet pensive moment lying down (try a sweet hand placement near their face) while you shoot from a low angle as well.
(3) Hand propping up face
This is a quick pose that builds on the one above while your child is lying down. Have them prop up on their elbows with their hands on their face.
(5) Under the covers peek-a-boo
This pose is the sweetest, and is perfect for engaging with younger children (particulary toddlers!). Have your child lie in their bed and cover them with a blanket. For adorable expressions play a round of peek-a-boo. For best results, make sure colors are neutral and go together (keep an eye on distractions and patters that might conflict with your subject and focus of the image!)
(6) Special teddy bear or stuffie hug
This is a good distraction if your child might be struggling to focus, or is a bit shy. Have them give their special stuffed animal or teddy bear a hug (or have them whisper a secret!).
(7) Activity
Taking pictures of your children in their everyday setting, especially when they’re doing what they like best, playing their favorite game, doing homework or painting. Keeping them distracted and busy is a great way to get them to cooperate without them even knowing what you’re after!
(8) Reading
A sweet moment reading their favorite book. This is a win-win where it keeps your child busy with their own interests so they won’t even notice what you’re up to!
(9) The big smile
As a parent we’re always on the look out for the full on belly laugh thats uniquely THEM! Remember, no staged smiles where you’re asking your child to say ‘cheese’. The best laughs come from asking silly questions like ‘who’s the stinkiest in the house’ or ‘can you think of a naughty word that will make mommy laugh!?!’
(10) Eating
Don’t forget to use food as a great prop to get adorable moments!
(11) Bubbles
Nothing is more fun than bubbles!! Children just love them and its an easy win for a series of gorgeous images.
(12) Hide & Seek
When outside you can involved your kids in a quick game of hide & seek. Get them to hide behind an object and ask them to peek out from their hiding spot. Make sure you’re ready with your hand on the shutter to freeze the moment!
(13) Playing with sand
Just like their favorite activity, sand is a great sensory activity kids love. Whether you are at the beach or at home, they can play and keey themselves entertained while you take on an observer role and sneak your shot!
(14) Throwing or chasing a ball
Kids in motion are the best! Use a ball to give your subjects some movement and adjust your angle for some fun perspective. If you shoot from the ground level while focusing on the ball as the foreground subject, you can get some really creative shots!
(15) Swinging at the park
The playground is a jackpot of photography opportunities. It provides endless action shots, and kids are completely in their element. The only tears or arguing will be when its time to go!
(16) Mommy & me – the hug
This might take some self-timer mastery, but make it a priority to jump in the shot at least once a month if not once a week. This pose is extremely touching, and as the years pass will hold an incredibly important place in your heart! Use variations of this pose by creating a staged ‘candid moment’ with your child unaware of your camera.
(17) Piggyback ride
An absolute crowd favorite! This pose is easy, fun, and a great one to have in your toolbox! Try this pose with siblings, mommy or daddy – at home on the rug or standing up!
(18) Family hug
This is an absolutely beautiful portrait that includes everyone. You can use many variations on this pose as well. Lying down on the bed together, outdoors, and in many combineations with a variety of different groupings and subjects.
(19) Snuggles
Another great opportunity to sneak in the photo with your child. This works great with younger kids. Lie on the ground and bring your child to your chest. For toddlers and younger kids try playing airplane and getting them above you in the air!
(20) On the hip
This pose is super simple and natural. Its one of those poses as a mom you will look back on and cherish. It tells a sweet story of how little they once were!
