Kids don't smile on command? Say it isn't so!

As a parent and a professional photographer, I know there are many magic words and phrases that parents use to TRY to coax a smile out of their children. I'm as guilty as the next parent of employing the words, "Smile," or "Say Cheese" or dare I say resorting to BRIBERY??

We've all done it, after all, we've been conditioned for generations to do it...



But...if that's not working for you...you might try:
-- Playing peek-a-boo from behind the camera
-- Setting the camera on remote on a tripod and just let it snap away
-- Photographing them doing something they love 
-- Giving your child permission to play
-- Having someone chase them around and scoop them up...
-- Giving them something of yours that they covet (keys, sunglasses, etc.)
-- Breaking out the bubbles...no little kid can resist bubbles
-- Reading a book to your child or handing them a book they love
-- Telling the older ones "Not to smile" or "Keep a straight face"
-- Goosing them
-- Allowing them to make funny faces and then wait until they crack up laughing
-- Consider adding your family pet to your photographs
-- Carrying your camera so often it's just a part of you (that's my tactic!)
-- Telling them you think you saw the tickle monster
-- Negotiate:  Let them take pictures they want in addition to the ones you want
-- Handing them a camera to take your photos (smile naturally)...then switch

There are tons of ideas on how to make this work for your family...if you have a good idea, please share it in the comments below!