Poses To Capture During Children’s Portrait Mini Sessions

As not only a Seattle area photographer, but a mom, I think about the poses we see our children in that highlight something unique about them. These are inspired by the fleeting moments that happen in our daily lives. We glance at our children and notice their cute nose, their thick eyelashes, or a certain expression they make, but just as quickly our thoughts move on to what errand we have to run next.

While I encourage each child to act naturally and authentically, the following are a few of the basic poses I use during Better Than School Portraits, children’s fine art portrait mini sessions, creating a time capsule for parents to look back on for years to come.

Capture their eyelashes as they look down

Each time your child reads a book, zips their jacket, or (probably most frequently) looks at their iPad or phone, you get to admire their thick eyelashes.

It is thought that our eyelashes may thin and/or become shorter as part of the aging process. So although your child’s thick, dark eyelashes are an amazing sight, they may not last forever.

I love to ask children to glance down at my shoes or over to a spot on the floor, and while they do, I quickly grab a portrait of their beautiful eyelashes. I may vary this by asking them to fix a button on their shirt, straighten a tie if they are wearing one, or look down while they tuck their hair behind their ear.

Not only will their eyelashes be the focus but also their nose and cheeks. It’s an angle not often captured but one I know will bring parents back in time whenever they view it.

Reflect their age as they look up into the camera

It’s only a short time in our children’s lives that they have to look upwards towards us. They may look up as they ask a question, tell a joke, or examine your face to see what you think about a particular topic. Before we know it, our children are looking at us eye to eye and eventually may even grow taller than us.

While you are the person they automatically turn to for advice and learning, that might not always be the case. I love to capture their innocence, curiosity, and personality through this upwards gaze.

Capture them looking away, no eye contact

This pose was one of the first I captured of my own son which inspired me to take yearly photos of him and helped me see the value in a “Better Than School Portrait” experience for families and children. Much like when we observe someone in person, when a portrait does not have eye contact, it allows the viewer space to take in more.

When we look into the eyes, we often stop there. But viewing a person who is looking off in the distance, allows us the time to truly observe them… their cheeks, hairline, the profile of their nose, and maybe even the glint in their eyes as they look at or talk about something that excites them.

Notice and photograph the details

From curly hair to a missing tooth, I always try to notice the details that tell the story of a child at their particular age. By next year they may start wearing braces, style their hair differently or trade their glasses for contacts. I love to take a moment to portray who they are today.

Record a unique expression or gesture

Whether it’s my Fine Art School Portraits or Better Than School Portrait Mini Sessions, I give children the time and space to talk to me. I ask them questions or have them tell me a joke. I observe to see if they use their hands when the speak; I notice if they raise their eyebrows or their eyes sparkle when they talk; I let them be who they are and give them space if they are shy.

A beautiful portrait doesn’t require a smile

Lastly, I remember that although we are accustomed to spouting, “Say Cheeeese!” and desiring an earnest smile, we can create meaningful and authentic portraits without one. A straight face speaks volumes.

It’s amazing the variety that can be captured in a quick and easy five minute session. Children change drastically from year to year, yet we don’t always notice those changes when we see them every day. Children’s portraits freeze the current moment and become even more valuable over time.

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