How to Make Family Photos Fun (Even for Dads Who Hate Photos)

Let’s talk about something that comes up every time I book a family session: the dad who hates having his photo taken.

Sound familiar?

You’re excited to update your family photos, you’ve chosen a beautiful location, picked outfits that actually coordinate, and the kids are on board (mostly). But there’s one person in the family who’s a little… reluctant. He might not say much, but you can feel the vibe, “Why do we have to do this?” or “Just tell me where to stand.”

Trust me when I say: I get it. And I promise, my sessions aren’t like the ones he’s dreading.

Not Your Average Photo Shoot

If you’re imagining stiff poses, awkward forced smiles, and standing still for what feels like forever, let me stop you right there. That’s not what I do.

My sessions are relaxed, playful, and led by connection. I use prompts rather than poses, little games or activities that get everyone moving, laughing, and interacting naturally. I won’t ask anyone to “look at the camera and smile.” In fact, I don’t care if they look at me at all! I care that they look at each other.

Because the magic happens when you stop trying to “get it right,” and just start being with your people.

So What Does That Actually Look Like?

Picture this:

You’re all barefoot on the sand, or maybe walking through the long grass as the sun dips low. The kids are chasing each other or climbing on Dad’s back. You’re laughing at something ridiculous your toddler said. Dad is holding your daughter up in the air while she squeals with delight. I’m standing back quietly, capturing it all, the movement, the light, the love.

I might say, “Can you whisper something silly into Mum’s ear?” or “Run towards Dad and give him the biggest hug you can!” and that’s it. That’s the prompt. From there, the real moments unfold, the kind that make your heart burst when you look back at the photos.

Why Dads Actually End Up Enjoying It

Here’s the secret: most dads just don’t want to feel awkward or told what to do. And once they realise they don’t have to pose, they start to relax.

They realise they get to just be with their kids. They get to play, snuggle, and be their goofy, loving selves, and suddenly, it’s not about the photos anymore. It’s about time together. Real connection. And that’s what I’m capturing.

And when they see the finished gallery? Nine times out of ten, they’re just as obsessed as you are.

Your Role: Set the Tone

Here’s where you come in. If you’re calm, open, and just excited to hang out with your family for an hour, they’ll follow your lead. You don’t need to prep anyone or bribe the kids, I’ve got all the tricks for that.

Tell your partner this isn’t about perfect poses or making the kids behave. It’s just time together, with me tagging along to capture it.

(And if you really need to win him over, I’ve had dads say “Was that it? That wasn’t bad at all” or even, gasp, “That was actually fun!”)

The Photos You’ll Love Most

The best photos? They won’t be the ones where everyone is looking at the camera. They’ll be the ones where your son is giggling into your neck. Where your partner is brushing the hair out of your face. Where your daughter is holding your hand with that sweet little toddler grip that’s gone too soon.

Those are the ones that will make you cry when you look back years from now.

One Last Thing…

If your partner is hesitant, that’s okay. I’ve worked with lots of reluctant dads and know how to ease them in gently. They don’t need to perform, pose, or be anything other than who they already are, a loving dad.

So go ahead and book the shoot. You take care of the outfits, I’ll take care of the rest.

And tell Dad this: there’s no pressure, no posing, and absolutely no fake smiles required.