5 Fun Games to Play With Kids for Natural Family Photos

If you've ever tried getting young kids to sit still, smile at the camera, and look in the same direction, you know it can feel impossible.

The secret? Embrace the chaos.

Some of my favorite family photos happen when kids are simply being kids. By turning your family photo session into a game, you'll capture genuine smiles, natural laughter, and authentic moments you'll treasure for years.

Here are five of my favorite games to play with kids during a family photography session.


1. Red Light, Green Light

This classic game is perfect for getting kids moving naturally.

Have them run or walk toward the camera while you call out "Red Light!" When they suddenly stop, you'll often catch big smiles, giggles, and funny expressions. It's a great way to create energetic, candid family photos.


2. Ring Around the Rosie

Sometimes the best photos happen when everyone forgets there's a camera.

Hold hands, spin in circles, laugh together, and enjoy the moment. The movement creates beautiful, genuine interactions that make for timeless family portraits.


3. I Spy

"I Spy" is a simple game that naturally encourages kids to look around and interact with their surroundings.

For variety, play one round without pointing and another where everyone points to what they see. Both create different looks and help capture natural expressions.


4. Hug Attacks

This is always a favorite.

Have the kids race toward Mom or Dad and give them the biggest surprise hug they can. Kids love the challenge, parents get genuine reactions, and the result is full of real smiles, laughter, and connection.


5. "Look at Whoever..."

This game is one of my favorites because it captures your family's unique personalities.

Start with a traditional family portrait, then ask everyone to look—with only their eyes, no pointing—at:

  • The person with the messiest room.
  • The funniest person in the family.
  • The one who talks the most.
  • The biggest snack lover.
  • The person with the least amount of hair.

The reactions are priceless, and every family responds differently. These little moments often become my clients' favorite images.


The Best Family Photos Aren't Perfect

The goal isn't perfectly posed children.

It's capturing your family's real personalities, genuine laughter, and the love you share.

When everyone is having fun, kids stay engaged, parents relax, and the photos feel authentic instead of forced. Those are the images you'll cherish long after the session is over.

So the next time you're planning family photos, skip the pressure to get everyone perfectly still. Play a few games instead—you might end up with your favorite family photos yet.