Why Smiling in Family Photos Feels So Hard
When we first started as photographers, we thought the hardest part would be choosing the right lens or finding the perfect light. But the real challenge? Smiling. Not just for our clients — for us too.
We still remember our own family photoshoots session. The camera was clicking, but every smile felt stiff, every pose forced. Deep down we knew: this wasn’t us.
And that’s when it clicked: if we, as photographers, felt this way in front of the lens, then of course our clients would too. Smiling naturally isn’t about saying “cheese.” It’s about comfort, connection, and forgetting for a moment that the camera even exists.
Helping Dads Relax in Family Photos
Michael: The Serious Dad
Michael arrived straight from work, still in his office shirt. As soon as the camera came up, he stood tall and gave what I call the “serious work face.” It looked like a staff meeting, not a family moment.
We didn’t ask him to smile — that never works. Instead, we got him to whisper a silly secret to his daughter. She burst out laughing, and seconds later, so did he. That was the moment. That was the real family.
👉 Tip: Dads don’t need posing instructions. They need connection.
How to Get Teenagers to Enjoy Family Portraits
Samisha: The Teen Who Didn’t Want to Be There
At fifteen, Samisha wasn’t thrilled about family photography. Arms crossed, lips tight — her body language said it all.
So we asked about her music. Minutes later, her favourite song was playing, her little brother was dancing terribly, and suddenly Samisha’s wall broke down. Her laughter was real, and her photos glowed with it.
👉 Tip: Teenagers smile when they feel seen, not forced.
Helping Mums Feel Confident in Front of the Camera
Sonam: The Mum Who Wanted Everything Perfect
Sonam had carefully chosen outfits for everyone, her makeup flawless, her accessories matching — yet when she stood in front of the camera, her smile wavered. You could see it in her eyes: Do I look okay?
Instead of rushing, we slowed down. We reminded her how beautifully she had prepared, and then asked her husband to tell us one thing he loves about her style. His answer made her laugh, her shoulders dropped, and suddenly her confidence lit up the frame.
👉 Tip: Sometimes mums don’t just need direction — they need reassurance that they already look amazing.
Embracing Children’s Playful Energy
Junior Singh: The Child Who Surprised Everyone
Junior Singh was five and couldn’t stay still for a moment. While his parents tried to settle him, he suddenly flipped upside down into a handstand — mid-session! Instead of stopping him, we captured it. His grin, his parents’ laughter, the spontaneity — it became the highlight of their gallery.
👉 Tip: Kids bring their own magic. Sometimes the “unplanned” moments are the most unforgettable.
Capturing Big Family Fun by Best Photographer
The Harrisons: A Family That Couldn’t Stop Laughing
The Harrisons came in as a tight, loving group — parents, sons, and their partners. At first, they sat politely, a little unsure how to pose together.
So we started a simple game: pointing questions.
“Who is the laziest?” Fingers shot up and laughter filled the air.
“Who eats the most?” Everyone pointed at Dad, who laughed just as loudly as the kids.
“Who spends the most money?” One son’s partner blushed as the others playfully pointed her way.
Within minutes, the tension was gone. The family forgot the camera and got lost in the fun, teasing, and laughter. What we captured wasn’t just a posed group shot — it was the true spirit of their family: joyful, connected, and full of energy.
👉 Tip: Activities like this break the ice instantly and turn “posed” moments into genuine memories.
Our Approach to Natural Family Photography in Wellington
Before the Session
We don’t just meet at the location and start shooting. We take time to know you — your story, your quirks. By the time the camera comes out, nobody feels like a stranger.
During the Session
We keep it interactive. Laughter, little activities, fun challenges — the session feels like family time, not a photoshoot.
Behind the Scenes
While you’re enjoying yourselves, we’re adjusting angles, light, and settings. You don’t have to think about it. That’s our craft.
The Atmosphere
Families leave saying, “That was actually fun!” And that’s when natural smiles happen — not because we asked for them, but because they came on their own.
Why Natural Smiles Matter in Family Photography
Think about the photos you treasure most. They’re not the stiff, posed ones. They’re the ones where your child is giggling uncontrollably, or you and your partner are caught mid-laughter.
A family portrait without a real smile is just a picture. A professional family portrait photoshoot with a natural smile is a memory. It’s a piece of family history that feels alive.
FAQs About Family Photography in Wellington
How do you get kids to smile naturally in family photos?
By turning the session into play — games, races, tickles — instead of forcing them to sit still.
What should we wear for a family photo session?
Choose comfortable outfits in coordinating colours, not exact matches. Avoid busy patterns. Layers and textures look great.
How long does a family photography session take?
Most sessions run 60–90 minutes. Enough time for kids to warm up and for natural moments to unfold.
Where’s the best place for family photos in Wellington?
Some of our favourites include Oriental Bay, Botanic Gardens, and quiet beaches around Eastbourne. We’ll help pick the perfect spot for your family.
Ready for Photos That Feel Like Your Family?
If you want family portraits full of laughter, connection, and real smiles, let’s make it happen. We’ll create a session where you forget the camera and just enjoy being together.
👉 Book your Family Photography Session in Wellington
Note: Some names and details in this story have been changed to respect our clients’ privacy, while the experiences and emotions remain true.
