After rescheduling two prior times, we finally got to do this sweet family’s photo session earlier this year! The rain prevented us from getting together, so we were flexible once the weather improved. We need rain here in California! I’ve known this sweet family for a few years as they are our best friends’ family. So when they visit from the valley, we all get together. These girls have big personalities! It has been fun to watch them grow and become their own individuals. We had a great time exploring the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. Since it was February, it was the end of the Butterfly Migration season. So we searched for butterflies and captured some fun moments along the way. See a few of my favorites below.

Here are a few tips for a fun photo session with your kids!

• Play Games: We will make it fun by playing games like tag, Simon Says, share a secret, etc. These help them engage without overthinking they are getting their picture taken.
• Build Trust Early: Kids can read adults so easily. They know who we are before we even say a word. So I aim to be very bubbly, friendly and gain their trust early on. So I spend at least 5 minutes with the kids as we are prepping for their session. I ask them questions and try to see how they are feeling that day and get to know them & what they like. Every kid is unique, so they will handle being photographed differently.
• Reward Good Behavior: As they listen, commend them! Give high fives! Cheer! Dance with them! And see if the parents have set up a reward for afterward and remind them of that. Kids love being rewarded with treats! And, adults do too!

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