Getting real smiles and candid giggles from little ones can feel a bit like chasing butterflies—adorable, but not always easy! That’s why having a stash of fun photography prompts for kids is such a lifesaver for family and newborn photographers (and parents alike). These tried-and-true prompts (that I’m sharing below!) spark curiosity and play, helping kids stay engaged and natural in front of the camera—so you can snap those genuine, joy-filled moments with ease.
In case your new here, I’m Natasha Sewell, a former elementary school teacher turned family and newborn photographer and mom of three, specializing in cozy, in-home sessions. Over the years, I’ve discovered and fine-tuned many photography prompts for kids that help capture genuine laughter and connection every time. If you’re a photographer wanting to improve your skills and confidence with families and children, feel free to reach out—I offer mentoring and education to help you create authentic, joyful sessions.
Why Use Photography Prompts for Kids?
Kids aren’t always interested in standing still and saying “cheese” for the camera. In fact, many of them find posed instructions boring or even intimidating (ask me how I know haha). Their natural instinct is to play, explore, be silly, and move around freely—not to freeze in one spot and smile on command.
That’s why these photography prompts for kids are a photographer’s best friend.
When done well. these prompts act like gentle invitations, encouraging kids to engage in playful, natural behaviors that feel fun rather than forced. Instead of focusing on getting the perfect pose, prompts guide children to interact with their environment, their family members, or even just their own imagination.
The result? Candid, heartwarming moments that feel real and spontaneous—photos that truly capture the essence of childhood.
This is especially important if you’re offering in-home photography sessions like mine, where the goal is to reflect a family’s unique dynamic in the comfort of their own home. Here, kids aren’t faced with a sterile studio environment or surrounded by strangers. They are in a space where they feel safe and familiar, which naturally lowers their guard.
Plus, using well-crafted prompts in this setting helps children connect more deeply, not just with the camera, but with their parents, siblings, and their own feelings. Whether it’s a prompt to whisper a secret to a sibling, gently tickle mom’s arm, or share a giggle over something silly, these moments allow children to express joy, curiosity, affection, and sometimes even shyness in ways that posed photos can’t capture.
Six Favorite Photography Prompts for Kids
I’m going to share all six photography prompts for kids here, but here’s a sneak peek at two of my favorites to get you started. These are designed to make kids laugh, interact, and forget they’re in front of a camera!
1. Looking for Boogers
Toddlers are squirmy, easily distracted, and rarely want to look where you ask. But every kid loves a little gross-out humor! Ask your little subject to check if mom or dad has boogers in their nose. The kids will giggle, look up at their parents, and you’ll capture genuine smiles and laughs. It’s silly, simple, and incredibly effective for those tricky toddler moments.
2. Smelling or Playing with Hair or Feet
Want to capture sibling connections or snuggly moments between parents and kids? Prompt the kids to smell or play with someone’s hair or feet. Then ask what it smells like — is it sweet, stinky, or like ice cream? What does it feel like — soft, hard, tickly? This playful sensory interaction naturally sparks smiles and affectionate moments that photograph beautifully.
Can you already picture how effective these photography prompts for kids are? You can grab all 6 of them in this FREE guide here!
More Ways to Use Photography Prompts for Kids
Now that you’ve got a taste, I want to share some additional strategies to keep kids engaged and happy during your shoots. I know that getting kids to pose isn’t the easiest part of the job sometimes, but my goodness, is it ever rewarding to see those sweet smiles! Here’s some more advice.
Use Movement to Your Advantage
Kids are full of energy! Instead of asking them to sit still, incorporate prompts encouraging movement like jumping, dancing, or spinning. Say things like, “Let’s see how high you can jump!” or “Show me your silly dance!” Movement relaxes kids and makes it easier to capture candid expressions.
Encourage Storytelling
For older children, ask them to tell a story about a favorite toy, pet, or memory while you snap away. This not only helps them open up but also gives you authentic emotions and gestures that bring your images to life.
Engage with Props and Toys
Simple props like favorite stuffed animals, blankets, or bubbles can help kids feel more at ease. Prompt them to blow bubbles, hug a teddy, or play peekaboo. These natural interactions become genuine moments on camera.
Why In-Home Photography Is Ideal for Kids
One of the biggest reasons I specialize in in-home family and newborn photography is because the familiar surroundings truly help kids feel at ease. Unlike a studio where bright lights, backdrops, and unfamiliar props can sometimes overwhelm little ones, home is their safe space. It’s where they feel comfortable being themselves—curious, playful, and perfectly imperfect.
When kids are in their own living room, playing in their backyard, or snuggling on the family couch, the pressure to “perform” melts away. This relaxed environment naturally invites more authentic emotions and spontaneous moments, which is precisely what we want to capture. It’s where everyday life unfolds—the place filled with laughter, messes, and little interactions that make your family uniquely yours.
In this cozy setting, using photography prompts for kids becomes even more powerful. Because kids already feel safe, these prompts can spark genuine connection rather than forced smiles. Whether it’s a prompt that encourages a silly dance by the window, a gentle moment of smelling mom’s hair on the couch, or a tickle fight on the floor, the natural backdrop of home lets these interactions shine without distraction.
Plus, the convenience of shooting at home means no stressful trips or disrupted routines for your little ones. They can stay in their pajamas, play with their favorite toys, and enjoy snacks in between shots—everything that keeps the mood light and joyful.
Ultimately, in-home sessions capture more than just pictures—they capture your family’s story as it is: warm, lively, and full of love. And with the right photography prompts for kids, those moments become timeless memories you’ll cherish forever.
Make Photography Fun for Kids
The best photos happen when kids feel happy, safe, and unpressured. Using photography prompts for kids is one of the easiest ways to build that trust and ease during your session. Remember to be patient, flexible, and playful. The goal isn’t perfect posed photos—it’s capturing the heart and spirit of childhood, with all its silly, sweet, and spontaneous moments.
I’d love to hear how these photography prompts for kids work for you! If you have questions or want to share your favorite kid-friendly prompts, feel free to reach out—I’m always here to chat and support your photography journey. For even more behind-the-scenes tips, sneak peeks from sessions, and daily inspiration, follow me on Instagram. It’s a great place to connect and see these prompts in action.
And if you’re ready to take your family photography skills to the next level, I’d be thrilled to work with you one-on-one. My 1:1 mentoring program is designed to help you confidently capture authentic moments and build a business you love.
Natasha Sewell is a family and newborn photographer plus a photographer educator and mentor. She captures family’s joyful chaos in the place they are most comfortable – home. Natasha serves Washington, DC and surrounding areas and specializes in maternity, baby, and family photography.
