Do you bribe your kids to participate in family photos? No judgement at all! I’m a mama too, and I totally get it! 

One thing I’ve found after photographing hundreds of families over the years is that sometimes parents bribing their kids can actually have the OPPOSITE effect that they’re going for. When it comes to toddlers especially, they really don’t have a good concept of delayed gratification yet. So when you tell them they will get a special treat or get to do something fun AFTER the session is over, it just makes them want to be done with the session sooner so they can have the treat. It can potentially cause meltdowns and not allow them to actually enjoy the session, because they just want it to be over. 

Bribes that you bring WITH you (like literally AT the session, not in the car) work much better for toddlers, because they really need that immediate reward! 

So what types of bribes or rewards work well? Honestly, even just praise and affirmation is a great reward for any kid! Toddlers especially are still learning about the world around them and they love hearing that they are doing a great job! When they see that what they  are doing is getting them attention and a positive reaction, they are much more likely to keep doing it! I always give lots of positive affirmation, but they want to hear it from mom and dad, too!

Edible rewards are also great for toddlers! Just make sure it’s non-messy. Mini marshmallows are a great option. They are small and white and won’t be visible or distracting in photos. 

Did this help you have a better plan of action when it comes to making your next family photo session stress-free? Let me know what other questions you have about making family photos fun and reducing the stress! I’m all about making family photos a special time that the whole family actually LOVES!

Hi there! I’m Michelle, a Greenville, SC based photographer specializing in capturing families, maternity sessions, and newborn photos, and I also offer seasonal mini sessions! Are you looking for family photographers, maternity photographers, or newborn photographers in the Greenville, South Carolina area? I would absolutely LOVE to work with you!

You can see all the details about newborn photos with me by clicking here.

Or, you can see all the details about family photos with me by clicking here.

You can book a photo session with me by clicking here. Have questions you want to chat through before booking? Click here instead! I can’t wait to create and capture memories for you to hang in your home and cherish forever.