You’re getting ready for family photos, you’ve wrangled the kids into coordinated outfits, and now you’re driving to the session thinking… “What if we all look awkward?” Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. I can’t tell you how many times families show up at our photo location with nervous smiles and that classic “we-don’t-know-what-to-do-with-our-hands” feeling. I get it. Posing can feel strange, especially when you’re juggling a toddler’s snack cup in one hand and trying to hold a squirmy kid in the other.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to know how to pose. That’s my job.
Let’s talk about how natural family photo posing can create real connection, real joy, and yes—even a little snack-cup chaos—that looks natural and beautiful in your family photos.
Parenting, Posing, and Everything in Between
I’ve worked with families for over a decade, and as a mom of four boys, let’s just say I’ve seen it all. From babies who only want to be held (by mom, and no one else) to preschoolers planning a full-on crumble over a granola bar, no two sessions ever look the same.
But one thing is always consistent: most families are nervous about “posing.” Some worry the kids won’t cooperate, or that they’ll have to force some stiff smile. Others fear they look weird in photos. That pressure to “perform” can make a session feel downright stressful.
So, let’s shift how we think about posing. Instead of thinking about it as performing or presenting yourselves as perfect, think of it as connecting. My job is to gently guide you into interactions that feel true to your family—hugs, walks, playful moments—while snapping images that reflect who you actually are.
My Go-To Tips for Natural, Relaxed Family Photos
1. Let the Kids Lead at First
When you arrive at the session, I start by getting down on the littlest one’s level. I say hello, ask them where they want to be photographed, and if they’re chatty, I chat. Sometimes they need a minute. That’s okay. The goal is to build trust, so they feel seen and comfortable with me before we even take the first photo.
This sets the tone for everyone. If the kids are relaxed, you will be too. And I find the reverse to be true—if the parents can relax a little, it will help the kids.
2. Posing Isn’t What You Think It Is
Yes, I’ll make sure we get one great photo where everyone’s looking and smiling (Grandma needs it for the fridge, right?). But we don’t stay there the whole time.
The rest of the session is filled with little prompts and movement:
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“Walk towards me and talk to your oldest like you would at the park.”
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“Snuggle up like you would on the couch at home.”
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“Everybody tickle dad!”
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One of my personal favorites: “Check to see if Dad has boogers in his nose!”
These gentle prompts lead to genuine giggles, little sideways glances, and sweet snuggles—the good stuff that actually tells your family’s story.
3. It’s OK if Things Get a Little Wild
Let me just say this loud and clear: it’s okay if your kids don’t sit still. It’s okay if your toddler has their shoes on the wrong feet or your teenager brings their sarcastic humor. (Honestly, I love that.)
This is a snapshot of your life right now. Imperfect is still beautiful.
I’m not here to tame your kids or fix your expressions. I’m here to guide you through it with patience, empathy, and enough experience to know that the moments in between—the messy ones—are often the most meaningful.
4. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
I’ll handle the angles, the light, and your worried thoughts about what to do with your hands. All you have to do is show up and engage with your people. That’s where the magic happens.
A lot of families have told me they didn’t even realize I was getting the “good stuff” until they saw their gallery. That’s the goal. I want you to enjoy the evening as a family, not perform for a camera.
Why Natural Family Photo Posing Matters
Whether you’re documenting the newborn stretch of sleepless snuggles or the blink-and-you-missed-it phase of having teenagers under your roof, these moments matter.
You deserve to see your family reflected with love, not perfection. And you don’t have to feel polished or posed to be worthy of being photographed.
When you look back at these images years from now, I hope you remember the fun of that day, the little moments that made your heart swell—not the stress of trying to “get it right.”
Ready to See the Real You?
If you’ve been holding back from booking a session because you think “we’re just too awkward” or “my toddler won’t sit still,” I promise—it’s fine.
I help families every day move from nervous to natural with natural family photo posing—and I’d love to help yours too.
Looking for relaxed family photography in Albany, Salem, or the Oregon Coast? I’ve got favorite spots, outfit help, and
lots of tricks to help you feel at home in front of the camera. Let’s plan a session that feels like you.
Reach out through my contact form and let’s start dreaming up something beautiful, playful, and real.
And if you’d like to read more tips on family photos in Oregon, check out these other blog articles:
How to Prepare your Kids for Stress-Free Photos
Top Locations for Oregon Family Photos
What to Wear for Oregon Family Photos
Ready to book? My online booking calendar can be found right here: Jen White Photography
