Taking children to a photo shoot
Child hood is a special time that travels far to quickly and then is all but forgotten, just like a child"s attention span. Parents take their kids out with the best of intentions to come home with some sweet and romantic family photos, even the most well mannered child can find all the excitement a bit overwhelming (or boring!)How are parents supposed to react when their 8 year old is frowning because he would rather be in front of the television and their 3 year old is crying because she didn"t get to wear her rainbow shorts and her most loved tie dye shirt.
The most important thing if possible is to find a photographer who has worked with and is good with children. It will make the whole thing go much smother when you are not having to fuss and get the kids ready for a shot, then you have a funny look on your face but the kids look like angels.
A photographer who is good with kids will get them involved, ask them questions and may even ask them to help, that way the child will feel needed and useful rather than just an object.
Try to get out side. If your photographer is comfortable with an outdoor shoot at the park or even your backyard this will greatly improve you child"s behavior. As long as it is save the kids can play and move around and not feel like they are trapped. When your taking photos outside it can quickly become a fun photo frenzy as everyone dog piles on Dad (near the end of course).
If you are not able to shop around and the photographer you end up working with ether doesn"t like children or is not comfortable with their high energy, be prepared and have things from home to keep the kids occupied. A teddy bear might not look so bad in the photos if that is what is making your son feel safe or maybe a video game or coloring book for your daughter to play with while she is waiting her turn.
As the parent only you know what your child"s likes and limits are, just as you would pack a bag of distractions on a road trip the likely hood is than the same things will come in handy when going on a photo shoot.