Documentary at home: fun family activities for your next photo session
Documentary family photo sessions are about a lot more than just taking pictures. They’re an opportunity to have great fun, and create beautiful memories together.
Incorporating fun activities into your session not only helps everyone relax but also brings out authentic smiles and bonds. When you plan activities you love during your session, two wonderful things happen: you get a moment of quality time and self care with your loved ones, and you get moving, beautiful images that look exactly like you, not just any family.
If you’re planning a family photo session, here are some playful, fun family activities for your next photo session, ensuring your photos feel natural and uniquely yours.
Have a dance or singing party
Who doesn’t love a little dancing? Turn up your favorite family song and let go! Whether it’s twirling with your toddler or breaking out goofy dance moves, this activity is a sure way to get everyone laughing and moving. Many families have a favorite song they love to sing along to, I know mine does!
Play a favorite game
Bring along a family board game, a deck of cards, or even a simple ball for a game of catch. For younger children, peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek can create joyful, candid moments. When you play a game, you forget you are being photographed, feel comfortable, and that’s perfect for storytelling.
Read a story together
Reading to a kid is a favorite of mine during family sessions. For quieter, intimate moments, bring a beloved storybook and read together as a family. Snuggling on the couch or gathering under a tree outside with a book creates calm, heartfelt interactions that look stunning in photos.
Have a picnic or a snack
Picnics are a classic way to enjoy quality time. Lay out a blanket, bring some snacks, and enjoy the simplicity of eating and chatting together. Little ones need snacks to keep their energy and mood levels high and they’ll welcome having a small break during the session. Plus, picnics create a relaxed setting perfect for capturing natural interactions.
Explore the outdoors if you have a park nearby
If your home is next to a park, why not have part of your session outside? If the weather allows it, consider activities like: collecting leaves or shells, walking through a forest trail or playing tag in an open field.
These small adventures give kids something to focus on, and create opportunities for natural interactions.
Bake or cook together
For in-home sessions, baking cookies or cooking a family meal adds a playful, everyday element to your photos. Let the kids mix ingredients, taste-test, and even make a bit of a mess! These moments often lead to some of the best smiles. Baking can take quite a while, so it’s ok to just do a part of it: make the dough for the cookies you’ll cook later, or make it ahead of the session to save time!
Blow bubbles
Simple and timeless, bubbles are perfect for engaging children and creating magical, carefree images. The motion and colors add visual interest while keeping everyone entertained.
Share a family tradition
Incorporate an activity that’s meaningful to your family, like making hot chocolate on a chilly day, playing an instrument, or gardening together. These traditions showcase your family’s unique story and make the session feel truly yours. You and the kids will love to look back one day and remember fondly these special traditions and routines. Photos will be so precious!
Get silly!
Sometimes the best photos come from just being silly. Make funny faces, tell jokes, have a tickle fight, or piggyback ride your kids. Let loose and embrace the chaos: these playful moments are often the ones you’ll treasure the most. I often encourage families to let go and enjoy. Let the kids jump on the bed, let them sit on the table. Let them be kids, it’s a special day!
Including activities in your photo session creates an environment where everyone feels relaxed and connected. Instead of posed, stiff smiles, you’ll have images that capture genuine joy, bonds, and love.
Remember, the best activity is the one that feels natural and fun for your family. Whether you’re dancing in the living room or picnicking in the park, these moments will result in photos that truly represent your family’s dynamic and energy.
Ready to Book Your Family Photo Session?
Looking to create lasting memories with your family? Did these fun family activities for your next photo session inspire you? Let’s make your next family session as fun and meaningful as possible. Get in touch to book your session, and together, we’ll capture the joy of your family’s unique connection. Learn more about family sessions and pricing.