How to Get Kids to “Behave” at Photoshoots

One of the most common questions I hear from parents before a family photo session is:
“How do I get my kids to behave?” Here’s the honest answer: bribes and threats don’t work and they often backfire.

When children are told they’ll lose something if they don’t smile on demand or “behave” for photos, they show up anxious and guarded. Add a stranger walking into their home with a big camera, and suddenly the whole experience feels like a test they’re afraid to fail.

Instead, I always encourage parents to reframe the session entirely. Try telling your kids something like: A nice lady is coming over to take some pictures of us having a family playdate. That simple shift makes a huge difference. When kids feel excited instead of pressured, they relax. They move naturally. They laugh for real. And that’s when the magic happens. The photos that come out of those moments aren’t forced or stiff, they’re full of genuine smiles, connection, and personality.

As a family photographer in Ridgewood, NJ and throughout Bergen County, my approach is always low-pressure and play-based. I don’t expect children to perform or pose perfectly. I meet them where they are, and we let the session unfold naturally.

The result? Photos that feel like your family, not a performance.

If you’re preparing for an in-home family photo session and wondering how to set your kids up for success, start with this idea: take the pressure off. I promise it makes everything easier, for everyone!

Why Mini Sessions Work So Well For Kids | NJ Family Photographer

Mini sessions sometimes get a bad rap. They’re often seen as rushed, less meaningful, or “not the real thing.” But I’ve designed mine with children in mind, and discovered mini sessions can actually be one of the best ways to photograph kids, especially little ones. Children don’t experience time the way adults do. What feels quick and efficient to us can feel long and overwhelming to them. A shorter session matches their natural attention span and energy, allowing them to stay present, engaged, and comfortable from beginning to end.

Another benefit of a mini session is that there’s less buildup. Fewer expectations. Less pressure. When kids aren’t asked to “get ready for something big,” they’re often more relaxed and more themselves. They can arrive, settle in, have a little fun, and be done before they get restless. Parents often tell me they’re surprised by how much we’re able to create in a short amount of time. The truth is, meaningful photographs don’t come from long sessions or elaborate setups. They come from connection, comfort, and letting kids move, react, and be who they are.

Mini sessions aren’t a compromise. When done right, they’re emotionally easier for families, and genuinely enjoyable for kids. And that enjoyment is what leads to photographs that feel natural, honest, and full of life.

If you’re curious whether a mini session might be a good fit for your child, I’m always happy to chat. Valentine’s Day sessions are a sweet example of how much we can create with very little pressure and a lot of fun! You can find current session details or reach out with questions anytime.

Best Ages for Baby Photo Sessions

There actually isn't a single best age that works for every baby. Having said that, lots of parents choose to have their newborns photographed in their first two weeks of life, while they are still sleepy, or as I like to say, “fresh”. When photographing newborns at-home, I always recommend waiting until the 4-6 weeks mark. This way mom and dad (and any siblings) have adjusted a bit, and gotten some sleep hopefully! My favorite time for an “older” baby photo session is around 6 months. This is when babies are more interactive and connected with the parents and siblings (or pets). Below is a photo from a recent baby photo session I did right here in Ridgewood. In the end, the best age for a baby photo session will depend on the style of photography you're looking for and your personal preferences.

Senior Session | NJ Portrait and Senior Photographer | Bergen County

Many of my Senior sessions are photographed in a nearby Bergen County park. But, I have to tell you some of my favorite sessions were done right at home. I find boys feel most comfortable in and around their homes. Given this, and the fact that 17-year old boys are rarely thrilled about being photographed, I highly recommend this location for your son’s session. We can easily incorporate some of his interests into his session and years from now, he will enjoy looking at photos of himself in the place he grew up. Home.

Wedding Day | NJ Photographer | Bergen County, NJ

As promised, here is the second installment of Kerry and Patrick’s wedding. I know when I run across a post with WAY too many photos, I tend to glance over them rather than pour over them. So, it’s my hope that by breaking up this big day into several blog posts you might take a moment longer to look through the images from a very special wedding.

p.s. Thanks to my second, Siobhan Cahill, for the great shots of the groomsmen getting ready. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Baby Shower at Felina | NJ Photographer | Ridgewood, NJ

I was lucky enough to be recommended by another local photographer to cover a baby shower at Felina right here in Ridgewood. Since eating at Felina shortly after it opened, I dreamt about photographing events there once their big event space was up and running. Little did I know that they also held events in the restaurant during the day before dinner service. I walked in on a recent Saturday to see the most gorgeous baby shower set up! Every detail was stunning and so well thought out. Being a lover of storytelling, I was in heaven! An Italian family, celebrating at a fabulous Italian restaurant with tiny jars of olive oil as place cards and a dessert table full of delicious Italian pastries and candies…all these things added up to a true shower of love, for both mama and baby-to be. Best part? The entire luncheon was planned by the mom-to-be’s sister. If I were to get married again (ok, renew my vows) I know which party planner I would call @agc_events. I hope you enjoy looking through these images from a beautiful September afternoon. And if you ever need someone to document your special event, I hope you will remember me.

Graduation Party | NJ Photographer | Bergen County

A few years ago, I took an online photography class and one of the segments was “How to build your brand and grow an Instagram following”. I’m so glad I took that class and, it wasn’t because I learned a lot about my style, but because I realized what was important to me. I found out I had no interest in growing my following since the truth is my favorite shoots are the local ones. Walking into a graduation party and seeing lots of familiar faces reminds me how much I value community and how fortunate I am to document some pretty meaningful events in the lives of kids I’ve known since they ran the halls and fields of Somerville. Somerville Elementary School is where it all started for me. It’s where I learned how to use a camera. I will be forever grateful for that opportunity. When the day comes where I get to photograph one of these kid’s weddings, I’ll know it’s come full circle. xo

Wedding at the Loft | NJ Photographer | Bergen County

I’ll admit I’m a little intimidated when someone inquires about a wedding. There are so many important moments that need to be captured and I worry that I might miss one, one that might never take place again! But after this past weekend, I may just have to stop worrying. The wedding took place at the Park West Loft right here in town. It was the most beautiful, intimate, love-filled afternoon. Everyone was so relaxed and happy to be exactly where they were. And I was lucky enough to document it all. I hope you enjoy looking through these images from a very special day.

Fortunato Family Session | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County

I’m not gonna lie, these guys kept me on my toes AND I loved every minute of it! Wouldn’t change a thing! I hope 2019 brings more sessions like this one. It reminded me why I love shooting; to preserve the feeling of what it is to be part of a family. One minute, someone might be driving you nuts but a moment later there is real tenderness. Stuff of dreams.

In-Home Newborn Session | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County, NJ

After photographing such a joyful Fresh 48 at the hospital, I was excited to meet up with this beautiful bunch again at home. The session was everything I'd hoped it would be. We had a gorgeous sunny day, with light streaming in the windows and the happiest big brother around! Bringing home a new baby is an exciting time, but it can be a tricky time too, especially when you have other "babies" at home. I remember what it was like coming home with my second son. That's why when I come to do a newborn session at your house, I will be sure to make the big brother or sister feel equally important, give them the chance to shine and hopefully, dance around on the bed. 

Fresh 48 Session | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County

Here is where I normally write a short paragraph about a recent session. But, I'm gonna keep this short and sweet...OH MY GOODNESS! Fresh 48s, First 48s, whichever you call them, they have my heart! If you are expecting a little one, I encourage (only because I shouldn't beg) you to consider booking a session. The emotions of those first few hours when a new life enters the world, are full of joy, love and hope. And as a photographer, I want nothing more than to document them for you so that long after all those sleep-deprived nights pass, you can look back and feel what it was like the day it all began.  xo

Lifestyle Newborn Session | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County

After the holidays, when the skies are gray and the days chilly, it's hard to think of a better way to pass a few hours than to be invited into someone's home to photograph their growing family. Those first few weeks when a newborn is welcomed are different for everyone, but each story deserves to be documented. If you are a mother, you probably remember the fog of the first few weeks; the lack or sleep and the busy schedules ~ especially if you have other children at home. It's hard to remember a grocery list during times like these let alone what it looked and felt like when you nursed your baby or snuggled them into your chest during the quiet moments. Moments you made sure happened, because, as new moms are often told, it goes fast. Man, I hated when people told me that, but there it is. Photos of this time will be something you will always cherish. So, if you are expecting, or have a new one at home, I'd love to come spend a little time capturing it for you and your family. These images will become heirlooms that will be passed down to the newborn you now hold in your arms. 

Why In-Home Sessions Matter | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County

I'm sure by now that my clients think I just want to get into their houses and will say anything to gain entrance, and while I do enjoy seeing how other people live, I can promise you that's not my motivation. Ideally, if I could meet everyone at home and then head to the park, we'd have the best of both worlds, but that's not always possible. So, when the weather turns chilly, it's the perfect time to capture images at home. I find kids are often much more comfortable at home and show a side of themselves to me that I wouldn't see in a park setting. My favorite part of an in-home session is after I've been there a bit; I get to head off with one kiddo at a time. This is when I to talk to them and find out who they are and what they love. What are they reading? Who are their favorite superheros? And, what was their best Halloween costume EVER?! As we talk, they forget I have my camera pointed at them. Taking photos is my passion, but connecting with my subject is my goal. This connection feeds my soul. But, more importantly, it lets children know they are listened to and seen. In the end, I'm able to deliver images to mom and dad that honestly capture the essence of their beautiful (and much loved) children. I hope you'll consider inviting me over next time you decide it's time to book a session. 

xo

| NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County, Ridgewood, NJ

The first time I met this beautiful family was at their daughter's first birthday celebration. As soon as I walked into the home where the party was to take place, I was warmly greeted by everyone. I knew at that moment, it was going to be a great session. Relatives and friends continued to arrive for the next hour or so and soon the house was full of laughter and the smell of delicious homemade Indian food. I can tell you, I left the party not only with a full SD card, but a full belly! You can imagine how delighted I was to hear from them again earlier this fall. We met at one of my favorite spots and spent an hour together documenting this special time in their lives.

Saturday Morning in the Park | NJ Child and Family Photographer | Bergen County

I always try to encourage clients to meet me during the golden hour, that time of day just before sunset when everything is bathed in a beautiful, warm light. However, I don't have to think back too far to remember what that hour was like when I had young ones. They don't call it the "witching hour" for nothing. I realize it gets it's name because toddlers and babies are often a little tired and cranky late in the day. Well, they aren't the only ones. Sometimes mommy has had a long day and is tired and cranky too! And maybe, just maybe, she starts acting a little witchy too? I certainly had days when I lost patience and wished I had just stopped what I was doing to take a break and help EVERYONE calm down, myself included. What I'm getting at is that a golden hour session isn't always ideal for every family and as luck would have it, I am a morning person. Annoying, I know, but true - I wake up with the birds. So, if you have a house of littles who are happier really early in the day, think about booking your session then. We can meet at your home or in a park, play a bit, take some pictures and then you can go about your day. No waiting around all day for your photo shoot. Afterwards, treat yourselves to a nice breakfast out. Maybe in an actual restaurant (that serves mimosas ;-)). After all, it's not often everyone will be dressed up on a Saturday morning. 

And we are DONE! Love, love when the kids give me the hand! 

Home Is Where It All Happens | New Jersey Child and Family Photographer

When a family welcomes me into their home on the morning of a photo session while everyone is still getting ready, I'm pretty sure magic is going to happen. This is the kind of session I dream of doing for EVERYONE! I'm sure I sound like a broken record by now, but the day to day stuff is the BEST stuff. The images where the little guys are half dressed and still eating breakfast, the backpacks in plain sight, half empty coffee mugs and sippy cups crowding the counters. Everyone puttering around the kitchen, doing their normal routine. I want you to have these images and to know you will treasure them more than any others. I'm beyond grateful to the families who open their homes to me and grace me with the gift of watching their dance. Life is in the details. Capture them, and you will never forget them. xo

Emily's Senior Session

One thing my mother drilled into me was this sentiment: "If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all." Maybe not the most helpful message, but it certainly stuck with me, which is why writing this blog post is tricky. Now that my son is in high school, I recently had to log onto the school pictures website and order a picture package. Is it okay to say it KILLS me to pay money for an image that doesn't capture my sweet boy in anyway? One thing is for sure, come senior year, that boy is coming with me out to a field or downtown and having his photos made! 

Photographing children has been my passion for the past 5 years, and I still love the crazy adorable energy of little ones, but recently I've fallen in love with photographing teens. Maybe it's because I now have one, and another on the brink of his teen years. I can relate to them and remember what is was like to be a teenager. All the ups and downs and exciting moments come rushing back like a vivid dream. A few weeks ago, I met this beauty in a nearby park and we spent close to a hour walking, talking and making pictures together. I say together, because it really does take two to make a beautiful photo. Make that three - the photographer, the subject and you, the viewer. 

Bat Mitzvah Portrait Session

I knew it was going to be a fun session when Mom saw the humor in my choice of location for her daughter's Bat Mitzvah photo session. What better spot than Our Lady of Mt. Carmel church right here in town? Most of the images were closeups, so you can see below, it worked out well.

Ben

I have a little confession to make: Sometimes I get nervous when I have a senior session with a boy as opposed to a girl. Not sure why? Maybe it's because I have a mistaken impression that teenage boys don't want to be photographed. The pre-session jitters were alive and kickin' the evening I went to photograph Ben. I remember a photographer friend once said to me, "The day you aren't nervous before a shoot is the day you should hang up your camera." And he was right. It means everything to me that people walk away happy with the photos of course, but also with the experience itself! The moment I met Ben, I knew it was going to be a great session. He put me at ease immediately with his calm and confident manner - imagine feeling confident at 17? Usually, it's the person in front of the camera that needs to be reassured - but not this time. Cool. As. A. Cucumber. Thanks Ben for helping ME relax! ;-)

Late in the Evening

Last week I had a nice surprise when I was asked to photograph a few bands that were scheduled to play before our town's Fourth of July fireworks show. I'm always on the lookout for something new and interesting to photograph, so to say I was excited by this opportunity is an understatement. When I first arrived, I played it safe and used a nice long zoom so that I wouldn't get in anyone's way or be too obvious, but by the end of the evening, I was all over the stage trying to catch the moments. There was so much great energy up on that bandshell, it made capturing genuine moments pretty easy. What it didn't make easy was the culling, but that's a problem I'll take any day! Enjoy!