On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being very), how difficult is it to get your kid to sit still for a photo with an adorable smile? Now, how many silly, goofy, or totally random photos do you have of your child making funny faces? I’m willing to bet it’s a lot! And guess what? I love those photos.
Why Silly Faces Are the Best!
As a family photographer, one of my favorite moments during a session is when kids let loose and make those hilarious, goofy faces. You know, the ones that instantly make their parents laugh! I fully endorse it. In fact, I encourage it. During my family sessions, I always ask the kiddos to make the goofiest face they can—a face that’s guaranteed to make their mom burst out laughing. It’s those moments that make the photos so special.
This summer, I started a fun project called Simply Me—a session dedicated to kids with big, bold personalities. It was also a great opportunity for me to showcase my work at an art show in Springfield, Illinois. For this project, I had the chance to photograph a fantastic kid named Alex.
Turning My Patio Into a Studio: Alex’s Fun-Filled Session
I transformed my back patio into a studio, complete with a white backdrop and lights, all set up for Alex’s session. And let me tell you—it was a blast! You should hear his mom’s laughter in the background of the video!
Alex was totally in his element, bringing along a soccer ball, showing off some tricks, and, of course, making the exact face his mom isn’t the biggest fan of (you’ll know it when you see it!). At one point, his mom even asked him to do “The Rock’s” signature eyebrow raise—and he nailed it!
Scroll down to check out Alex’s photos. Just tap on the images to enlarge them and enjoy all the fun moments we captured.
Immersion Art Show: My Personal Growth and New Opportunities
As I mentioned earlier, this session also provided the perfect opportunity for me to enter an art show. The event is called Immersion, hosted by the Photography Business Institute. I’m part of a photography business coaching program called Peak Performers with Sarah Petty, and every year she hosts two conferences for her students.
This year was the first time she held an art show for us, and honestly, it was the incentive I needed to push myself to attend. It was my first time going, and it was an absolute blast. Not only did I realize I’m not alone in my struggles, but I also came to understand that I have everything I need to make my photography business a success by the end of the year.
Trusting the Process: A Personal Realization
During the conference, we even planned out the last few months of the year, predicting what our sales could be. Let me tell you, my numbers felt impossible at first—but they’re not. They’re totally achievable.
I just need to trust and follow the process.
I need to trust in myself.
I need to put in the work.
I need to show up.
I need to stick with my plan.
Going to Immersion was such an eye-opener for me. I have everything I need—it’s just a matter of sitting down and doing the work, and then going out and putting in the work.
Your Turn: Ready to Capture Your Child’s Personality?
Thanks for following along on this journey with me! Capturing kids’ personalities, whether it’s their goofy faces or their sweetest smiles, is what makes photography so rewarding. These moments are fleeting, but they’re worth preserving for a lifetime.
If you’re ready to capture your child’s unique personality in a fun, laid-back session like Alex’s, I’d love to chat with you! Let’s plan a session that brings out the best (and silliest) moments of your family’s story.
Click here to book your family session today if you have any questions. Let’s create something unforgettable together!
And before you go, don’t forget to let me know which photo of Alex is your favorite in the comments below!