Why You Should Never Order Kids to Smile for Photos

Telling children to smile for photos invariably evokes an awkward expression. Kids feel self-conscious and may force a bizarre expression as they frantically comply with your order to switch the happy mode on. Needless to say, happiness is not a switch that you can flip on or off on demand. At least not for kids.

Telling children to smile is counter-intuitive to them. Frankly, it makes little sense. Ordering someone to be happy is rather bizarre if you think about it. You should give kids a reason to be happy. Don't force them to pretend that they are.

Maybe adults could feign a fake cheesy grin (and not all can do it well). But kids can’t because pretense is not in their blood. They can’t fake happiness on demand. That's just how they are.

Forcing a cheesy smile may feel odd even for grownups. And kids have a harder time handling awkwardness like this.

“SMILE, BE HAPPY! AND THAT’S AN ORDER!” This is exactly what it feels like when you order kids to smile. Safe to say, you will need a better approach if a natural kid’s smile is what you want.

How to Make Kids Smile During Their Photo Session

Just make them feel happy. Tell them how great they look and how much you appreciate their good behavior. You should smile with delight as you lavish praise on them. They will reciprocate with a natural smile as they feel appreciated. Your elation and smile are contagious and soon everyone will smile naturally – including kids taking their photo session.

In short, photo sessions should be happy sessions. No need for fake grins then. Make your kids happy even before the photo session begins.

So, if you want kids to LOOK happy during their photo session, perhaps you should make them feel happy. That's a no-brainer right?

Problem solved.