How to Capture Genuine Smiles in Your Family Portraits

As a professional family portrait photographer in Denver, I know that the most cherished family photos are the ones that feel authentic. Perfectly posed portraits are beautiful, but the ones that truly stand the test of time are those where real joy shines through—where you can feel the laughter, connection, and love just by looking at the image.

If you’re a mom who loves to document your family’s journey, here are my top tips for ensuring your next family portrait session is filled with genuine smiles and effortless happiness

Choose the Right Time of Day

Young kids (and even some adults!) are at their best when they are well-rested and well-fed. Scheduling your session for a time when your little ones aren’t tired or cranky makes a world of difference.

For the best natural light and a warm, glowing backdrop, I recommend golden hour sessions—an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset. The lighting is soft, flattering, and perfect for bright, happy photos.

Dress for Comfort and Confidence

I always tell my clients: if you feel great, you look great! Choose outfits that make you feel put-together yet comfortable, so you can move naturally and focus on having fun with your family. Coordinating colors (not matchy-matchy) and soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully, especially against Denver’s stunning outdoor backdrops.

Pro tip: Avoid stiff fabrics or anything too tight that might make it hard for your little ones to run, play, and snuggle up with you.

Let the Kids Be Themselves

As a mom, you want perfect photos—but sometimes, the best moments come from imperfection. If your child is extra wiggly or in a silly mood, lean into it! Instead of forcing stiff poses, I guide families through fun, natural interactions that let personalities shine.

I might ask your kids to whisper a secret to Daddy, tell a joke, or run toward the camera for a playful, in-motion shot. The goal is to keep them engaged and capture their real expressions instead of forced smiles.

Create Fun and Movement

Some of the best family portraits happen when everyone is moving. Whether it’s twirling in a dress, tossing your toddler in the air, or a big family bear hug, movement leads to natural smiles and organic moments.

During my sessions, I often give fun prompts like: 

• “Run to Mom and give her the biggest hug ever!” 

• “Look at Dad and give him your silliest face!”

•  “Walk hand in hand and whisper something funny to each other.”

These small actions create candid, heartwarming images you’ll treasure forever.

Make It an Experience, Not Just a Photo Session

Your family photo session should feel like a fun family outing, not a stressful to-do list item. Whether we’re at a scenic Denver park, a dreamy mountain overlook, or a cozy in-home session, I want you to feel relaxed, connected, and present.

I encourage families to laugh, play, and enjoy the moment, and in return, I capture the most authentic and joy-filled portraits.

If you’re ready for a family portrait session that feels easy, fun, and stress-free, I’d love to work with you. As a mom myself, I understand how fast the years fly by, and I want to help you capture these precious, fleeting moments in a way that feels natural and timeless.  And remember—the best family photos aren’t just about how you look. They’re about how you feel.