Let’s be honest—getting kids to smile on command is basically an Olympic sport. As photographers (and parents ourselves), we know that "say cheese!" doesn’t always cut it. So here are five actually useful and kid-approved tips to get those genuine grins and belly laughs during your session—even from the ones who show up with their grumpiest game face.


1. Embrace the Power of Poop Talk 


We’re not sure why talking about poop is universally hilarious to children—but it is. Want to see your kid instantly light up? Casually drop, “Did someone just say poop?” mid-shot. Boom. Smile unlocked. Don’t ask us why. It just works.

2. Make It a (Silly) Competition

“Who can laugh the loudest?”

“Who has the stinkiest feet?”

“Who can make the silliest face without laughing?" Kids love games. The weirder, the better. If it gets them thinking about how goofy they can be instead of how they should smile, you're already winning.

Group of people laughing together while sitting on fallen autumn leaves at outdoor photoshoot. Children being silly.

3. Mention Cheesy Ice Cream 


We once asked a kid, “Would you eat cheesy ice cream?” Cue full-on giggle meltdown. Followed by, “What about broccoli and booger swirl?” Weird food combinations are comedy gold to the under-10 crowd. Bonus points if you say it with a serious face and act like it’s totally normal.

4. Let Them Strike Their Own Pose 

Asking kids to strike their own pose is a game-changer. It’s a huge ice breaker, especially if they're feeling shy or unsure at the start. Whether it’s superhero arms, ballerina twirls, or their own made-up ninja move—it gives them ownership of the moment and instantly brings out their personality. Bonus: it usually ends in laughter (and some wonderfully weird photos).

Child in buffalo plaid sitting on porch with fall decorations including pumpkins and corn stalks. Child has hair in bun pigtails.

5. Get Physical (In a Safe, Chaotic, Kid-Approved Way)

Tickle fights, piggyback rides, dancing like a T. rex—movement helps release nerves and fake smiles. We’ll often ask parents to swing their kids, do a quick spin, or start a tickle ambush. Chaos = laughter. We can capture the calm later.

Family spending time together exploring and laughing together on a gravel path surrounded by green grass and wooden fences.

6. Let Them Be the Boss for a Minute

Give them control. “Okay, your turn to tell me what face to make.” Or, “Can you tell mom where to stand like a bossy director?” They feel in charge, they loosen up, and you get real expressions—plus a little sass.


At the end of the day, the goal isn’t a perfect, posed photo—it’s a real moment that looks and feels like your kid. So if we have to talk about poop, cheesy ice cream, wild poses, or who smells the worst to get it, we’re ready.


 Want a session full of fun, laughter, and zero stress? Let’s do this!