The Ultimate How to Guide to get Natural, Candid Family Photos (Without the Awkwardness!)

Family photo sessions

should feel like

JOYFUL MOMENTS,

not awkward yearbook photos.

Yet, when a family steps in front of the camera, suddenly, everyone forgets what to do with their hands! If you've ever had a session where Mom is stiff, Dad looks like he’d rather be anywhere else, and the kids have gone full wiggle mode—this is for you.

The secret? Natural, movement-based posing. Because stiff, forced poses aren’t just uncomfortable—they don’t tell the story of who a family really is. So let’s dive into the best ways to bring out real smiles, genuine laughter, and sweet connections with prompts that actually work.

1. The Walk and Talk Trick

Best for: Big families, camera-shy dads, toddlers who won’t stay still

Instead of lining everyone up like a police lineup, have them hold hands and walk together. Tell them to chat about their favorite vacation or what they’re having for dinner (watch the giggles when someone says “ice cream!”). This keeps everyone moving naturally and creates beautiful, relaxed shots full of energy. Bonus: Parents can sneak in a little swing for the youngest, adding a fun, candid moment!

2. The Squeeze and Squish Pose

Best for: Close family moments, little ones who need extra security

Ask everyone to “squeeze in as close as you can—like you REALLY love each other!” Parents can pull the kids in for a big group hug, with noses touching and silly squeezes. This makes for heartwarming, affectionate shots and keeps little ones feeling safe and happy.

3. The Whisper Game (How to Get Naturally Candid family Photos < This one is my favorite, just guide the littles to whisper a funny secret, the results are swoon worthy)

Best for: Encouraging genuine laughter, breaking the ice

Tell one family member to whisper something ridiculously silly in another’s ear—like “Unicorns eat spaghetti for breakfast.” The goal is to make them crack up! This trick works especially well for kids (and dads who claim they don’t know how to smile naturally).

4. The Run and Hug Move

Best for: High-energy kids, big sibling love

Tell the kids to run to their parents as fast as they can and give them the biggest hug ever. Parents should react big—lifting them up, twirling, laughing. The result? Dynamic, joy-filled images that show true family love in action.

5. The “Look at Your Favorite Person” Moment

Best for: Creating natural connection, showcasing relationships

Instead of “Smile at the camera,” Want to know how to get naturally candid family photos with everyone smiling at mom? try: “Look at the person who makes you laugh the most!” or “Look at Mom and tell her your favorite thing about her.” It’s heart-melting, trust me. 🥰

6. The Pile-On Pose

Best for: Families with multiple kids, lots of playful energy

Have everyone lie down in a soft patch of grass or on a blanket and let the kids pile on top of the parents! The result? A fun, giggly, snuggly mess that translates into adorable photos.

7. The Swing and Spin

Best for: Toddlers, playful parents

Get Mom or Dad to lift a little one in the air or spin them around. Not only does this keep kids engaged, but it also creates beautiful movement in photos. Wind in the hair, real smiles, pure joy—what more could you want?

8. The “Everybody Look at...” Trick

Best for: Candid, personality-packed photos

Instead of “Smile at me!” try:

• “Everybody look at the person who talks the loudest!”

• “Look at the person who takes the longest to get ready!”

• “Look at the person who’s most likely to eat dessert first!”

Cue genuine laughter and the best reactions.

9. The Snuggle and Story Time

Best for: Cozy, intimate moments, families with babies

Have the family sit down together, with kids on laps, and tell a quick story about their day. This works wonders for capturing natural expressions and sweet, in-between moments that feel so real.

10. The Let’s Just Play Approach

Best for: When kids won’t cooperate, capturing true personalities

Sometimes, the best way to pose...is to not pose at all. Let the kids explore, play, and interact naturally while gently guiding the parents into light poses. The more fun they’re having, the more authentic your shots will be!

Final Thoughts: Make It Fun, Not Forced!

Family sessions should feel like a happy memory, not a forced photoshoot. By using movement, interaction, and genuine connection, you’ll get images that families will truly cherish. So ditch the stiff, stand-still poses and embrace the beautiful, real moments instead. 💛

Got a favorite go-to family pose? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you!