Let’s face it – us mum’s are the ones who plan the annual family photoshoot in Perth. We seek out the photographer, plan the outfits and schedule the session knowing full well we will have to convince our partners that it is going to be a fun and relaxed experience. Meanwhile Dads? They would often rather skip it.

Here is the thing though – when Dad enjoys the experience, the photos don’t just look better, they feel more meaningful.

I’ve worked with many reluctant Dad’s as a Perth family photographer and here is what I have learnt.

1. Pick the right photographer (psst, it’s me!)

I will never ask Dad to smile at the camera and I won’t ask him to do anything he’s not comfortable. I always encourage everyone to “do what you would normally do if this weren’t a photoshoot”, and suggest things like exploring any wildlife in the trees, having running races or collecting sticks together. Things that make it feel like they are just hanging out as a family.

2. Give him a role

I like to give Dad a specific task that he feels comfortable doing and involves the kids. Things like picking the kids up and doing spins, shoulder rides and chasey. All things that encourage natural interactions that are games that you would play at home, making everyone feel comfortable and involved without being awkward.

3. Make it about the kids

Keep focus off Dad. It’s as simple as that. My sessions are run with a play-based approach, so the focus is always on keeping the kids happy. I find that by default, if the kids are happy, then everyone’s happy and that includes Dad. He doesn’t feel pressured to pose, he doesn’t feel like he is in every shot and he is genuinely enjoying playing games and hanging with his kids.

It doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth getting Dad to cooperate in your family photoshoot in Perth.

Are you looking for the right photographer to make things run smoothly with parents and kids alike? Book me for your next family photoshoot in Perth and let me run the session for you.