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Writer's pictureBeth Frost

Capturing the Chaos: How to Handle High-Energy Kiddos in Family Sessions

Family photo sessions with energetic kids can sometimes feel like a whirlwind—no amount of prompting, jokes, or silly games seems to keep their attention. Kids often have their own agenda, full of exploration, movement, and sibling antics. And honestly? That’s where the magic happens.

Photographing high-energy kids doesn’t mean wrestling for control or forcing poses; it’s about embracing the unpredictability and finding the beauty in their natural interactions. Here are three key tips I’ve learned for turning high-energy chaos into candid, heartwarming memories.


1. Go With the Flow

Trying to force control when kids are on the move will only increase frustration—for you, the parents, and the kiddos. Instead, lean into their energy. Capture the way they run, laugh, and play together. Once you’ve gotten one “Christmas Card” pose, the shots that parents will cherish are the candid ones, like kids chasing each other through the grass or giggling over an inside joke.

When kids feel free to be themselves, they relax, and the resulting images are authentic and joyful. Remember, family photos don’t have to be perfectly posed; they just have to be real.


2. Set a High Shutter Speed

When photographing kids who are constantly moving, a fast shutter speed is your best friend. You’ll want to freeze those fleeting moments—like a split-second glance between siblings or a mischievous grin.

If you’re worried about light, don’t hesitate to bump up your ISO or adjust your aperture to compensate. Slightly grainier photos are far better than blurry ones, especially when the action is fast-paced.


3. Switch Up the Scenery

Sometimes, kids get restless in one spot. Changing your location—even within the same park—can work wonders. Each new area will give kids something fresh to explore, which not only distracts them but also helps them calm down.

By keeping the session dynamic, we can delay burnout and capture a variety of unique shots in different backdrops. For energetic kids, a little exploration can make all the difference.


Final Thoughts

High-energy kids can turn a photo session into an adventure, and that’s not a bad thing. Candid moments—often born from chaos—are usually the most meaningful and memorable.


If you’re planning a session with little ones who have a lot of energy, don’t stress. Trust your photographer to capture the joy, movement, and authenticity that make your family unique. After all, the best family photos tell the story of who you are in this very moment—and that’s something to celebrate.


Would you like tips like these for your next family session? Let’s chat! 😊

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