I hear so often before a session something along the lines of ‘I’m not sure what you’ll get — my kids never behave for pictures!’ And every time, I smile because they are about learn that’s exactly where the best photos begin.
Kids aren’t supposed to sit still with their hands perfectly folded for an entire session — that’s not who they are.
I expect a little chaos. I welcome it.
When you let go of a specific idea of what “perfect” means… the kids sense that freedom right away. They soften. They play. They start being themselves again — and that’s when I see the magic.
With siblings, connection comes through movement.
We play games. We run. We twirl. I’ll ask them to tell stories, tickle each other, or show me who gives the best hugs.
Even simple prompts — “Who can make the other laugh first?” or “Show me your favorite silly face” — can flip the energy completely. When they forget they’re being photographed, the love (and chaos) naturally shows up.
And when one of them needs a break, we take it. I never force a pose. I meet them where they are and build from there.
Every sibling dynamic is different.
Some are gentle and quiet — some could power a small village with their energy.
Either way, I pay attention to how they connect and then shape the session around them.
If they’re shy, I slow things down.
If they’re silly, I join in the laughter.
If they’re fiery little opposites, I look for the split-second truce between the chaos.
After sixteen years photographing families, I’ve learned to read the room (or the field, or the beach!) — and flow with it instead of fighting it.
Most of my favorite sibling photos aren’t posed at all!
I’ll show them where to stand or sit and then let them interact with each other naturally.
I’ll direct their play a little, but what I’m really doing is giving them permission to just be together. Goof off, say silly things, and play. The interactions that they don’t even think about — are what turn into the most meaningful images.
Photos with children aren’t about perfect smiles — they’re about documenting a special relationship.
The way your oldest still reaches for their little sister’s hand.
The way they giggle at jokes no one else understands.
The way your baby lights up with their older sibling.
It’s the story of how they grew up side by side — and someday, it’s what they’ll hold onto when they want to remember what it felt like to belong to each other.
Please don’t stress if your kids don’t behave “picture-perfectly.”
That’s never the goal.
The goal is to see them — who they are right now — and to capture that fleeting, honest connection before it changes again.
Ready to capture the honest relationships within your family?
If you’ve been dreaming of photos that show your children’s connection — not just their smiles — I’d love to create that with you! Reach out so we can begin planning a special session for your family!
