How to keep a High-Energy Kid from getting bored at a Photo Session
We have all had it. In the intake questionnaire, the parent filling out the form states, “My kiddo has a ton of energy, so getting them to stand still for photos is going to use all your magic!” What do you do? Do you inwardly groan?
I don’t…. I get excited!!!!
I have been working with high-energy (often neurodivergent) kids for a long time now. My own daughter falls into that category. The challenge and zest that sessions with ADHD kids offers is something I truly love. They are never boring, that is for sure!!!
Embarking on a photo session with a bundle of boundless energy is an adventure of its own. Let me share some of my creative tactics to keep those vivacious toddler, kids and teens engaged and beaming throughout your photo session (and therefore avoid any negative acting out and spoiling the session. I want you to be as excited as I am when you know you have a high-energy child coming to your next photo session!
Dynamic Scenery Changes: Opt for locations with at least three distinct "scenes" to explore. When you sense the initial excitement dwindling, empower the little one by letting them decide the next backdrop. Whether it's the charming boardwalk or a daring climb over a fence, honoring their choice injects a sense of adventure and involvement into the shoot.
This Kirkland, WA park has an old barn, a orchard area, an old gas station and a big open field for running!
Family Playtime: Why capture just the child when you can freeze genuine family moments in time? Encourage the entire family to step into the spotlight by incorporating playful activities like hide and seek, parachute fun with a blanket, or a lively round of ring around the rosie. These spontaneous interactions not only result in heartwarming candid shots but also establish a comfortable atmosphere for the child, yielding authentic smiles and expressions.
Photo sessions are genuine when they include what the family loves to do together: dance parties, piggy backs, rolling on the ground, and parachute games!
Bring Interactive Activities: Gear up for a photo session that's as special as the little one you're photographing. As the parents about some of their kiddos favorite play activities and see if there is one that they can bring out to the photo session. Have them pack bubbles, their favorite toys, or whimsical ribbon-dancing ribbons. Are you doing a cold weather session? End the session with cocoa or hot cider! (I always ask the parents to bring this due to allergies, but I do have a set of camping mugs I offer to bring as they are non-breakable). These fun props are a great way to bring in things that are currently important to the kiddo and the family; things they will look back on and cherish!
Word of caution - end the session with these items! Once they are given to the kiddo, they often are hard to get the child to give it back and move onto other photos. It is a great incentive and provides something for the kiddo to look forward to.
Utilize the Environment: Nature provides the perfect playground for vibrant, interactive moments. Encourage the child to make a splash in puddles, perform balancing acts on logs or driftwood (it can be super cute to have mom and/or dad hold their hand while walking down it), or climb fences or trees with gusto. Is it fall? Great! Capture their joy as they throw leaves into the air. What about spring? Send the family looking for the perfect flower.
By integrating the environment into your photo session, you will capture spontaneous reactions and also craft lots of variety and genuine play.
Photographing high-energy kids is a delightful challenge that demands a blend of creativity, flexibility, and a ton of patience. By choosing a park with dynamic scenery changes, involving the entire family in play, introducing interactive activities, and leveraging the natural environment, you transform a potentially demanding session into a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Embrace the child's energy, and let it radiate through your photographs, creating images that authentically capture the essence of their lively spirit. Now go out and have fun!