If you’ve ever thought, “My kids will never cooperate,” you’re not alone. The good news: you don’t need perfect behavior to get great family photos. You just need a simple plan. Florida sessions work best when kids can move, snack, and reset fast this plan keeps it simple.
1) Tell Them What to Expect (In One Sentence)
Kids do better when they know what’s coming.
Try this:
“We’re going to hang out together and take some fun pictures. You don’t have to be perfect—just stay close.”
Avoid:
“You better behave.”
That sets a tense tone before you even start.
2) Keep It Light (Don’t Overhype It)
If you make it a huge deal, kids feel pressure. Keep it casual:
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“We’re going to the park for a bit.”
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“We’re going to walk around and play.”
3) Feed Them First
Hungry kids = short fuse.
Best move:
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real food 30–60 minutes before the session
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bring a simple snack as backup
Low-mess snacks:
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crackers, dry cereal, fruit snacks, pouches
Skip chocolate and anything that stains.
4) Bring One Comfort Item (Not a Toy Store)
A small comfort item can help shy kids warm up:
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a lovey
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a small stuffed animal
Avoid loud toys, screens, and anything you’ll fight to take away.
5) Movement Beats “Stand Still and Smile”
The fastest path to a meltdown is asking kids to stand still.
The easiest way to great photos:
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walking together
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snuggling
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picking kids up
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playing a simple game
That’s why sessions are guided-candid.
6) Dress for Comfort
Scratchy, stiff, or ill-fitting clothes backfire.
Do a quick try-on:
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can they sit?
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can they move?
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do shoes stay on?
Need help with outfits? Read: What to Wear for Family Photos in Florida
7) Your Job During the Session: Don’t Narrate
Parents accidentally make it harder by coaching nonstop:
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“Smile!”
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“Look here!”
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“Stop doing that!”
Instead:
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stay close
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follow direction
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focus on your kids, not the camera
I’ll handle the rest.
8) What to Bring (Small, Simple Kit)
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wipes
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water
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a snack
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a towel (Florida life)
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hair ties for someone
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backup top for little kids (optional)
9) If a Meltdown Happens
Normal. Here’s what works:
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pause for 30 seconds
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get down at their level
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reset with a hug
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then move again
Some of the best images happen after the reset.
FAQ
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What if my child melts down? Totally normal — we reset and keep moving.
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What should we bring? Wipes, water, a snack, and one comfort item.
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What should kids wear? Comfortable clothes they can move in (and skip neon/logos).
Ready to Book?
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