Photo Q&A: How Do You Keep Kids Smiling and Still During a Photo Shoot?

#562 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I dive into your most pressing photo questions. I take listener-submitted questions and share advice, stories, and practical strategies based on my own experiences as a photographer. Whether you’re wrestling with when to put a signature or logo on your images, trying to wrangle energetic kids during a family session, or feeling overwhelmed by all the technical settings on your camera, I’m here to help you navigate those common hurdles. KEY TOPICS COVERED Signature & Logo Usage on Photos - Raymond explains when photographers should (and shouldn't) add their signature or logo to images, distinguishing between branding needs and concerns over theft. He notes that landscape photographers may benefit more from signatures due to wider image use, while portrait photographers often don't need them unless for advertising. Managing Kids in Family Photography - The episode offers strategies for keeping young children engaged during sessions, such as making games out of posing or incorporating playful pranks to elicit natural smiles and genuine interaction. These methods lower stress, capture better moments, and leave clients happier. Tackling Technical Overwhelm and Regaining Enjoyment - Listeners struggling with camera settings (like manual white balance, exposure, or composition) are advised to simplify their process—using presets, prioritizing aspects like “moment” over technical perfection, and even shooting for fun with fewer controls, as with film or point-and-shoot cameras, to restore joy. IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS White Balance: A camera setting that adjusts color temperature to render whites correctly under different lighting conditions, measured in Kelvin. Client Closet: A collection of clothing offered by a photographer for clients to use during shoots. DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Why might you choose to add (or not add) your signature to your images? How can playful interaction with children change the outcomes of a photo session? In what ways do issues of confidence versus competence appear in your creative process, and how can you address them? What steps could you take today to get more photography clients, inspired by Raymond’s strategies? Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets at http://freephotographypresets.com/ Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!