Some kids light up when the camera comes out.

Others, not so much.

If your child tends to be more reserved or camera-shy, they're not alone.

It can be a lot for a kid to take in!


The good news?

A little prep at home can go a long way in building their confidence and helping them shine on Photo Day.

Here are four tips to help shy kids feel more comfortable, seen, and celebrated in front of the lens.



1⃣ Keep it Casual

Instead of making it feel like a big deal, try introducing the idea of school photos casually. Mention it while you're chatting or playing, and focus on how the photographer--Miss Naomi--is a very silly person.


The more you can stoke their curiosity, the quicker they will warm up to the idea.

A smiling child in a turquoise shirt poses against a white background for a portrait.
A black and white portrait of a young child with a playful half-smile looking at the camera.
Young child in a teal sweater poses with their hand resting on chin against white backdrop.
Try saying, "Miss Naomi might have you wink at the camera or make a silly face. I wonder what she'll do?!"

2⃣ Practice Makes Comfortable

Have a low-key photo session at home. Pick a spot near a wall. Let your child see and hear your camera or phone clicking so they get familiar with it. Invite them to help take photos of you first-this can ease the pressure and make the experience feel like play.


One word of caution: What I would not do is ask a child to smile or say "cheese." This leads to what we call "camera smile" which is the forced smile you see when someone is trying too hard. Simply be silly with your kid and talk about boogers or things that your child will find funny.


Make it FUN! I certainly will!

3⃣ Let Them Lead

Instead of directing every pose or expression, let your child take the lead. Ask how they'd like to stand or what kind of face they want to make.


Giving them a bit of control helps build confidence and makes them feel seen.


Pro-Tip: Ask them what they'd like to wear and try out a few different combinations. This will take the scramble out of photo day and allows you to check for things like wrinkles and stains. If they really love their outfit, ask them to pose in it! 💃

Black and white portrait photograph of a smiling youth with neatly styled dark hair wearing a casual grey t-shirt.

4⃣ Review and Celebrate

Afterward, scroll through the photos together. Point out what they did well—good posture, great eye contact, or a gorgeous grin. Tell them how beautiful or handsome they are!


This kind of positive reinforcement builds confidence and helps them walk into school ready to rock their Picture Day.

Do you want a school photo as gorgeous as your kid?

Book a 5 min session with me at my next pop up event

👇👇👇

He told me he had fun taking school pictures and I have never heard him say that about his pictures

-A Mom