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?

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/


Connect with Raymond!


Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at
https://beginnerphotopod.com/group

Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show -
https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa

Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet -
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/




Thanks for listening & keep shooting!