5 Ways to Get Authentic Smiles at Photography Sessions

Getting real, authentic smiles can be one of the biggest challenges in a photo session. At Indy Family Photo, I’ve run into my share of kids who’ve only been told to say “Cheeeeeese” in front of the camera.

So for my family photo sessions, I strive to help my clients “relearn” how to act in front of the lens. Don’t get me wrong, a quick smile can sometimes be all a photo needs. But if you really want to capture those truly wonderful, happy moments — especially with the kiddos — then here are five quick tips to capturing authentic smiles at your next family session!

5 Ways to Photograph Authentic Smiles

1. Never Underestimate Funny Faces

For the really little kiddos (like toddlers), have mom or dad stand directly behind, or even crouched over the photographer. We’re talking as close as they can get! Then have them make the silliest faces they can. If all goes to plan, it will look like the kids are looking directly into the camera.

The mistake most people make is standing up higher, or off to the side, and the kids never look like they’re looking at the camera.

2. Grab Yourself a Sound Machine

Sound machines can be a lifesaver! I have one that makes amazing noises — everything from clapping to sad trombone to fart sounds! (You can probably guess which sound is the most popular…)

So grab a good sound machine, hit play and capture all that authentic smiles!

3. Remember the Game of Telephone?

Put your family in a row and have mom or dad start a game of telephone — only make it extra silly. This is a surefire way to get the kids rolling over with laughter.

4. Use “Bubbles”

No, not actual bubbles, though that could be fun. Instead, have the kids in the session say the word bubbles… only have them say it in their angriest voice. Or better yet, have dad say it. This never seems to fail when trying to get those authentic smiles from the kids in the session — even the adults!

5. Faking the Laughs

I love employing this technique because it always works wonders when nothing else will. Tell your subjects — the whole family — to start fake laughing as hard as they can. In a few moments, they’ll actually start laughing because the whole thing sounds so ridiculous and silly!

At Indy Family Photo, we use many of these kinds of techniques and more! We love capturing authentic smiles and laughter from our clients — it’s what we live for! If you’re interested in book a family session, or even a session just for the kids, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Location Highlight: Flat Fork Creek Park

As a family, one of our favorite parks to play at is Flat Fork Creek Park in Fishers, IN. While it doesn't have a playground, there is a creek that we love to stomp in, treehouses for the kids to climb up into (the older kids especially love the treehouse that has a ladder!), and a field in front of the woods FULL of beautiful bird and cricket sounds. Flat Fork Creek Park has beauty in all four seasons with the acres of woods, sweeping views, and snowy sledding hills. In the spring and summer, we usually see lots of butterflies and catch some tiny toads while walking around the meadow and field trails.

Not only is it a wonderful location for kids to play in, but it makes for amazing family photography. When I’m photographing kids, I love to be able to do so in places where I can capture kids being kids and the magic of childhood. That’s part of why I love Flat Fork Creek Park.

Six Things to Love about Flat Fork Creek Park

1. The gorgeous natural beauty, with a variety of areas — woods, creeks, fields. Beautiful rich colors in the summer and fall.

2. The sweeping views and sledding hill. While we don't have many naturally hilly areas in Indianapolis, this sledding hill immediately makes it look as though we've transported you to Kentucky or Ireland. We can also climb toward the top of the hill to capture gorgeous, wide-open skies in a unique way.

3. There are so many wooden structures and features like the Boardwalk Bridge. During a family photo session, we can also go under the bridge for more photos with the wooden architecture. Kids love exploring underneath!

4. It's an easy drive for the northeast side of Indianapolis. It’s fairly close to Castleton, Fishers, Geist, McCordsville, and Fortville areas.

5. With its huge lot, parking is a breeze.

6. There are clean bathroom facilities, drinking fountains, and cool treehouses for your kiddos to explore throughout our photoshoot.

Things to keep in mind for Family Photo Sessions at Flat Fork Creek Park

Flat Fork Creek Park effortlessly lends itself to fun, unrushed family photo sessions. If you’re thinking about scheduling a family photo session to capture real smiles and real family fun at the park, here are a few tips to consider!

Wear sensible shoes

When wandering through Flat Fork Creek Park, keep in mind that parts of the trail are not paved. While the trails are still easily accessible, the uneven terrain makes it important for shoes that stay firmly on your feet. For small kiddos, avoid flip flops so they don’t slip!

Bug spray

In the late summer, there can be a lot of mosquitos out! With the wooded areas, especially as the sun begins to set, the bugs can be pesky. I love the golden, beautiful light that happens at sunset for photos, so having bug spray or bug repellent wipes is a huge help. It can make sure everyone is still comfortable and smiling in their pictures.

Find the Right Light for the Best Photos

Because large parts of the park are in full sun, we'll want to time your photoshoot around sunrise or sunset to get that gorgeous, golden glow.

Avoid the Busiest Seasons

The park is very, VERY popular and crowded for photoshoots in October. So, if you have your heart set on boardwalk photos, aim for a morning shoot. If you (or your kiddos) aren’t morning people, let's book a different month.

If you are interested in booking a family photography session at Flat Fork Creek Park, please make sure to reach out and we will be in touch!