Upon meeting each client it is my job to win over pretty much everyone one in the family who was not responsible for booking the shoot! To do that I do my best to be happy, fun, and as friendly and lovable as possible. As a mother, I know children are often sheepish around strangers and have not learned the art of faking it yet. Within seconds, I am able to discern the child's mood and how much attention to give them in my initial 'get to know you' phase before I even think about bring out my camera.

I recently had a client with the most beautiful child who had no intentions of looking at me nor smiling. Not ideal for a photoshoot! When this happens I try the below tactics and I dont hold back from using all of them, one at a time, if necessary. See the bottom for examples of the below.

1. I simply let the child lead. I gingerly follow the children around all the while snapping away. Some of my favorite photos are when the clients are not looking at the camera.

2. Ask them to do something they know mum and dad would not allow. Like standing on their choice of rock or stump.

3. Give them a set of short and easy to follow instructions like hold mums hand and run down to the water then turn around. Then ask them do it alone, guaranteed smiles!

4. Towards the end allow them to get dirty and creative. Ask them to make a castle or stick teepee or pile of leaves to jump in. Mum and dad can help and then ask them to move away.

5. Ask Mum or Dad to help with the giggle starter. Ideally have mom and dad stand directly behind you so it appears they are looking into the camera.

6. And if all else fails...bring great props! A few of my favs are ribbon wands, bubbles, shovels, magic wands, confetti, stuffed animals, balls, planes, trucks or even wings. I recommend saving these until the end as they often will not want to let them go and then every photo has a airplane in it!

Here are a few of my favorite images. I would love to hear your feedback or thoughts please comment below.