The Secret to Getting Natural Smiles During Your Fall Family Photos | Norman, OK Family Photographer

If you’ve ever tried to snap a family photo on your own, you know it can feel like an Olympic sport! Someone’s blinking, someone else is wiggling, and inevitably someone yells, “Just say cheese!” But here’s the thing: the best smiles don’t come from being told to smile at all. They come from connection, play, and being present together.

As a Norman, OK family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how families can go from stiff and stressed to joyful and relaxed in just a few minutes, with the right mindset and approach. If you’re planning fall family photos in Norman or OKC this year, here are my best tips for helping your kids (and you!) relax, have fun, and show those genuine smiles you’ll love forever.

Set the Tone Before Your Session

A little prep goes a long way in making your family photo session smooth and fun. Talk to your kids ahead of time about the experience in a positive way. Instead of saying, “We’re going to take pictures,” try, “We’re going to have an adventure together.”

Let them know we’ll be playing, exploring, and spending time as a family. This helps take the pressure off and creates excitement instead of dread. Your kids will show up already knowing it’s not about standing still and posing, it’s about having fun.

Embrace the Chaos (It’s Part of the Magic!)

Let’s be real, kids are unpredictable. And that’s a good thing! Some of the best moments happen when your little one is twirling in the leaves, running through the field, or belly-laughing at something silly.

During your session, I’ll be right there encouraging the play and rolling with whatever energy your kids bring. My job is to keep things lighthearted, engaging, and fun so natural smiles come easily. Your job? Lean all the way in. Laugh with them. Run with them. Dance with them.

When parents respond with joy instead of correction, kids light up even more. If they’re being silly or wild, let them! That energy makes for beautiful, authentic photos. And if things get a little too rowdy, don’t worry, I have plenty of tricks to gently guide us back into calm moments.

Leave the Discipline at the Door

This one’s big. The fastest way to lose those real smiles is when a child is being silly and having fun… and a parent gives them “the look”. You know the one I’m talking about! Instead, let your expressions match their joy.

During your fall family photos, let discipline take a back seat (unless it’s a safety issue of course). I’ll help with redirection if needed, but your focus should be on connection and presence. Your kids will remember the fun, you’ll feel more relaxed, and your photos will reflect that warmth.

Trust the Process and Enjoy Your Family

One of the biggest stressors I hear from parents is, “What if my kids don’t behave?” My answer is always the same: That’s okay. I’m a mom too, I’ve seen it all. I welcome every bit of energy, personality, and unpredictability your family brings!

I’ll guide the session with playful prompts, silly jokes, and imaginative fun to hold your kids’ attention and bring out their best. The most important thing you can do is focus on your family and let me handle the rest.

The Photos That Matter Most

At the end of the day, the best photos aren’t about perfection, they’re about connection. Some moments will be wild, others quiet, and not every shot will look “picture perfect.” But the ones that matter? They’ll be the ones that reflect your family exactly as you are: genuine, joyful, and beautifully real.

Ready to Book Your Fall Family Photos in Norman or OKC?

If you’ve been thinking about scheduling fall family photos in Norman or Oklahoma City, now’s the perfect time. The light is golden, the leaves are stunning, and your family’s story deserves to be captured in this season.

I’d love to help create photos that feel warm, natural, and uniquely you.

👉 Click here to view fall session options and book your spot.

Hi, Im Tara Brady

I’m a family and lifestyle photographer based in the OKC / Norman area. I’d love to help you document your story, just as it is. Let’s make some magic together.

Get to know me a little bit more HERE.

See more of my work on Instagram: @tarabradyphoto

Or contact me to book yours today!

Xo, Tara