Why Your Kids Don’t Need to Sit Still for Beautiful Photos
Let them move. Let them play. Let them be themselves.
If you’ve ever felt nervous booking a family photoshoot because your child never sits still—this is your permission slip to relax. Truly.
Because here’s the secret: some of the most beautiful, honest, joy-filled photos I’ve ever taken were of kids in motion—barefoot and beaming, hair wild in the wind, giggling as they ran straight into a wave or jumped into a parent’s arms.
Movement is magic.
And perfection? It’s never the goal.
Real Life Is Beautiful (Even When It’s a Bit Messy)
I work with families every week who worry their kids won’t behave, won’t smile, or won’t do what they’re “supposed” to do. But your child doesn’t need to perform for the camera. They just need to be themselves.
The result? Images full of feeling—connection, play, wonder, and joy.
That sideways glance your daughter gives you when she thinks you’re being silly?
The crinkled nose of your toddler mid-laugh?
The chaos of a tickle fight that ends in a cuddle on the grass?
These are the moments you’ll treasure.
You can see this in action in A Windswept Beach Family Session—a reminder that wild-hearted children bring all the colour and character a photo ever needs.
Let’s Reframe What “Good” Looks Like
The best family sessions feel less like a photoshoot and more like a beautiful, unrushed afternoon spent together. There’s no “sit here and smile” pressure, no rigid posing, and definitely no expectation for your little ones to be anything other than who they are.
Instead, I gently guide your session with prompts and play. I might suggest a walk along the water, a game of peek-a-boo, or a moment of stillness while your child rests their head on your chest.
We don’t need a perfectly posed shot. We need presence.
We need that little spark that says: this is how it felt to be theirs.
More on this approach in Why Mum Deserves to Be in the Frame Too—a reminder that connection matters so much more than perfection.
Tips for Relaxing into the Moment
If you're still feeling a little worried, here are a few simple ways to make your session feel easier:
Bring a familiar toy or blanket: Something small and comforting that can join us if needed.
Snacks & water: Always a good idea (for grown-ups too).
Let go of expectations: Kids can sense when we’re stressed. The more you lean into fun, the more they will too.
Dress for comfort: If they feel good in their clothes, they'll be happier to run, jump, and cuddle freely. (You’ll find outfit tips in What to Wear for Your Family Photos)
The Photos You’ll Love Most Aren’t Always the Ones You Planned
You might come into your session with a mental checklist—but I promise, the images that end up living on your walls, the ones that bring tears to your eyes, are often the ones you didn’t expect.
The kiss on your forehead.
The out-of-focus feet running through sand.
The quiet moment when your child looks at you like you’re their whole world.
Those are the treasures.
And the only thing your child needs to do for us to get them?
Just be a child.
Because This Stage Is Fleeting
Toddlers won’t always twirl your hair or ask for another piggyback.
Preschoolers won’t always mispronounce “sandwich” or insist on bringing a stick collection to the shoot.
Let’s capture it before it changes.
Let’s hold on to this version of them, and of you, in this season together.
With love, always—
Nicole Reine Photography
Capturing the beauty of your story through Motherhood & Family Portraits
Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central Coast
www.nicolereinephotography.com
Follow along on Instagram @nicolereinephotography
