I will admit it without hesitation—I love taking headshots of children. There's something deeply rewarding about capturing the sweet details of a child's face. From the curve of their lips to the sparkle in their eyes, children's headshots offer a moment of stillness in their fast-moving world. As a photographer, I find these moments magical. My clients love them too. Over the years, headshots have become a signature part of my sessions. In fact, ninety-five percent of the time, clients end up purchasing prints of these headshot images. That statistic alone speaks to the emotional resonance of a well-captured child's portrait.
When most people hear the term “headshot,” they imagine something formal, stiff, and perhaps a bit dull—think yearbook photos or corporate ID badges. That couldn’t be further from how I approach headshots with children. For me, a headshot is an opportunity to connect with a child and reflect their unique personality. It’s a moment to capture not just what they look like, but who they are. I want to show that children’s headshots can be expressive, soulful, silly, and above all—creative.
Getting Genuine Eye Contact
If there’s one thing that brings life and connection to a headshot, it’s the eyes. Eye contact in a photograph has the power to move people. It builds an invisible bridge between the subject and the viewer. With children, getting that intense, genuine eye contact can be challenging—but it’s absolutely worth the effort.
My goal is not to force a smile or manufacture a moment. I prefer honest images. I don’t need children to smile for my camera. What I care about is connection. To get that, I meet them on their level, both literally and emotionally. I often squat, kneel, or even sit so I’m right at their eye level. This simple physical adjustment makes a huge difference in how comfortable they feel.
Building trust is key. I don’t rush into taking the shot. I talk to the child, sometimes about something silly like their favorite snack or a bug they saw outside. I let them know I’m truly interested in them as a person. I may ask a question like, “Can you see my eye in the camera?” or “Do you see a butterfly in there?” These small but meaningful questions serve multiple purposes. They keep the child engaged, make them curious, and often result in sustained eye contact. That’s when I click the shutter.
This approach not only yields photographs with powerful eye contact, but it also makes the child feel seen, heard, and respected. That authenticity always shines through in the final image.
Revealing the Beauty of Lashes
Children often have the most incredible eyelashes—long, dark, and naturally curled. These delicate features add softness and emotion to any portrait. One of my favorite ways to highlight a child’s lashes is by photographing them while they are looking down. There’s something tender and introspective about this pose. It creates a quiet moment in the photograph that speaks volumes.
Often, I capture these images organically during our conversation. If a child is naturally shy, they might avert their gaze while talking to me. Rather than interrupting them or asking them to look up, I allow the moment to unfold. These shy downward glances often result in beautifully sincere photographs that parents adore.
If the child is more extroverted and less likely to look down on their own, I guide the moment gently. I might say, “Tell me about your cool shoes,” or “What’s that on the ground?” This subtle redirection encourages the child to lower their gaze, giving me the perfect opportunity to capture those gorgeous lashes from a flattering angle.
What’s important is that the child doesn’t feel manipulated. I want them to remain fully engaged and in the moment. These eyelash portraits are a gentle celebration of a fleeting time in their life—one that parents will treasure for years.
Shooting from Above
Perspective is everything in photography. One of my favorite techniques for adding visual interest to headshots is shooting from above. This viewpoint shifts the dynamic of the photograph. It turns a traditional headshot into something playful, fresh, and unexpected.
To capture this angle, I often lie the child down on the ground—on a soft blanket, a patch of grass, or even indoors on a rug. I then position myself directly above them, sometimes straddling them carefully so I can shoot straight down. Children usually find this setup funny or intriguing, which naturally leads to authentic smiles and curiosity.
Sometimes I’ll switch it up and have the child sit on the ground while I stand above them. I might say something goofy like, “Hey, do you see the monkey on my head?” This playful prompt grabs their attention and makes them look directly up at me. The result is an image with wide eyes, soft lighting, and an endearing sense of wonder.
This perspective not only emphasizes facial features but also simplifies the background, keeping the focus exactly where it should be—on the child. It’s especially effective for younger children and babies, as it allows for a full, clean view of the face without distraction.
As with every technique I use, my goal is to make the experience enjoyable and easy for the child. When they’re having fun, the magic happens naturally.
Letting Them Look Away
Not every compelling headshot requires direct eye contact. In fact, some of my favorite images feature children looking away from the camera. These photos often convey a sense of thoughtfulness or emotion that feels deeply authentic. Sometimes a child glances toward their parent, toward a toy, or simply into the distance.
There’s a quiet strength in these images. They capture the in-between moments—the ones that happen when a child is lost in thought, feeling safe, or simply observing the world around them. These candid frames offer a more nuanced perspective on the child’s personality.
During a session, I always watch for these natural moments of looking away. I never force them. Instead, I allow the child’s attention to wander, and when the moment feels right, I press the shutter. Sometimes, I intentionally draw their attention elsewhere. I might say, “What’s Mommy doing over there?” or “Did you hear that sound?” This gives them a reason to turn their head, adding an element of curiosity to the image.
Parents are often surprised by how much they love these less traditional shots. They feel honest and emotionally rich—capturing a side of their child they may not even have noticed themselves.
In a world where so much of children’s photography is filled with exaggerated smiles and staged poses, a simple moment of looking away can be refreshingly beautiful. It tells a quiet story, one that resonates long after the session is over.
Expressions That Tell a Story
Embracing a Range of Emotions
Children are emotional beings, and that’s exactly what makes them such powerful subjects for headshots. While a smiling photo is often the end goal for many parents, I find that the most impactful images are the ones that explore the full spectrum of emotion.
Children don’t live in a constant state of cheerfulness—and their headshots don’t need to either. A pensive gaze, a mischievous smirk, a quiet pout, or an open-mouthed laugh all have their place in telling a richer story. I love capturing that diversity of feeling because it reveals the soul behind the face.
To bring these expressions out, I follow the child’s mood rather than trying to dictate it. If they’re being goofy, I encourage it. If they’re feeling shy, I work with that tenderness. If they’re in a thoughtful or serious place, I respect it and shoot in that quiet energy.
Sometimes I guide them gently with prompts like, “Can you make a face like you just saw a dragon?” or “What’s your grumpy face look like?” These imaginative prompts invite them to play while still being present. It’s not acting—it’s expressing.
The goal is not to catch a single perfect moment but to document the many small, honest ones that tell the truth of who they are. Those real expressions always connect more deeply than anything forced.
Silly Faces and Personality
One of my absolute favorite parts of any children’s headshot session is letting them go wild with silly faces. There’s a moment in nearly every shoot when I say, “Okay, now show me your silliest face ever.” The transformation is instant. Tongues stick out, noses scrunch up, eyes cross—and giggles erupt.
These aren’t just throwaway shots for laughs. They often become favorites. They show the child’s sense of humor, their spirit, their confidence. Parents love them because they reflect the exact personality they see every day at home.
Silly face portraits also act as wonderful transitions. They loosen kids up and help reset the mood. After a few goofy shots, it’s much easier to bring them back to neutral or calm expressions, which tend to follow more naturally once they’ve had their moment of release.
I always make sure to frame these shots with the same level of care as any formal portrait. Great lighting, a clean background, and strong composition ensure that even the most chaotic face still results in a beautiful, high-quality image.
The best part? These portraits age beautifully. Years down the line, they’re the ones that spark the biggest smiles.
Candid Laughter
Laughter is pure joy—and it’s even better when it’s real. But genuine laughter can’t be commanded. “Say cheese!” rarely brings out a true laugh. That’s why I never ask kids to smile for me. I invite them to laugh instead.
To get authentic laughter, I have to earn it. I play games, tell ridiculous stories, or do something unexpected. I might pretend to sneeze so loud it startles both of us, or I might mispronounce their name on purpose and let them correct me with glee.
Sometimes I get parents or siblings involved. A tickle from mom off-camera, a fart noise from dad, or a funny dance from a sibling can lead to the kind of belly laugh that makes an image unforgettable.
Once a child starts laughing, I shoot quickly and often. Laughter moves fast—it starts with a grin, grows into giggles, and sometimes ends in full-on face scrunching joy. I aim to catch the entire sequence.
These moments become treasured keepsakes not because the child is posing, but because they’re fully alive in the frame.
Posing Without Posing
Using Hands in Creative Ways
Children often don’t know what to do with their hands during a photo session—and I don’t expect them to. Instead of forcing stiff poses, I look for natural gestures and gently guide when needed. Hands can be expressive tools in portraits, adding character and comfort to a headshot.
I might encourage a child to rest their chin on their hands, clasp them together under their cheek, or place them gently on top of their head. Sometimes, I’ll ask them to frame their face, hold a flower, tug at their collar, or tuck a curl behind their ear.
These small gestures keep the body engaged and give the child something to do, which relaxes the energy of the photo. It also adds subtle storytelling to the frame.
If a child seems unsure, I demonstrate the movement myself. When they see me doing it (especially if I exaggerate a little), they laugh and copy me—and that turns into its own beautiful moment.
I never force poses. The child’s comfort always takes priority. If a suggestion doesn’t feel right, I pivot and try something else.
Involving Movement
Stillness can be beautiful—but movement brings photos to life. Even in a headshot session, I find ways to incorporate motion that feels dynamic and natural.
I might ask a child to sway side to side, spin and then freeze, or shake their head to let their hair move. Sometimes, I’ll tell them to dance just a little bit in place or “wiggle your nose like a bunny.” These prompts result in spontaneous, lively expressions that give the image energy.
Capturing movement requires readiness on my part—I shoot in bursts and stay light on my feet, anticipating the moment when motion and emotion meet.
Movement also helps break up the session, especially for active kids who don’t like sitting still. It gives them permission to be themselves, which always leads to better photos.
Letting Them Lead
Some of the most magical headshots happen when I stop directing altogether and simply let the child take the lead.
Children have their own natural sense of how they want to move and express themselves. Once they’re comfortable, I often say, “Now show me what you want to do.” The results are always surprising and delightful.
Some kids strike dramatic poses, others make funny faces, and some simply sit quietly and look right into the lens with calm confidence. Whatever they choose, it’s real—and that’s what makes it work.
This approach not only builds trust but also makes the session feel like a collaboration. The child feels empowered, and their sense of agency shows in the photographs.
Why Creative Headshots Matter
Creative children’s headshots are more than just pretty pictures. They’re emotional time capsules—capturing fleeting expressions, budding personalities, and the authentic spirit of who a child is in that moment.
The beauty of a creative headshot lies in its honesty. It’s not about forcing perfection but revealing truth. It's about connection, trust, and presence.
For me, every session is a chance to slow down and see a child clearly. To notice the small gestures, the quiet thoughts, the outbursts of laughter, and the moments of stillness.
When parents look at these images and say, “That’s so them,” I know I’ve done my job.
Because in the end, the most creative headshots aren’t made with fancy backdrops or elaborate props—they’re made with patience, playfulness, and a deep respect for childhood itself.
Preparing for a Successful Session
Creating a Comfortable Environment
The success of a children’s headshot session often begins before the camera is even lifted. The environment I create sets the tone for everything that follows. I want children to feel safe, relaxed, and curious—not pressured or self-conscious.
I begin by making the space feel welcoming. Whether we’re shooting in a studio or outdoors, I greet each child with warmth and positivity. I avoid jumping straight into the session. Instead, I take time to chat, ask about their day, or show them a small prop or silly toy.
I also make sure the physical space is child-friendly. There should be no overwhelming flashes, loud sounds, or clutter that could distract or stress the child. Natural light helps a lot—soft and even lighting keeps the environment gentle and flattering.
Music can also help! Sometimes a quiet playlist of playful or soothing music sets a calm background tone, helping children settle in without realizing it.
Comfort leads to confidence. Confidence leads to connection. That’s the chain I always keep in mind.
Communicating with Parents
A smooth session also depends on clear communication with parents. Before the shoot, I send a simple prep guide outlining what to bring, how to dress their child, and what to expect from the session.
I always emphasize the importance of low-pressure energy. I encourage parents not to prompt or direct their child too much during the shoot, as that often causes tension or overthinking. I let them know that the best photos often come when they step back and allow me to build the relationship with their child.
That said, parents are still important collaborators. Sometimes their presence is comforting to the child, especially at the beginning. Other times, I’ll gently suggest they take a few steps back if the child seems distracted by their presence. Every situation is different, and I read the room accordingly.
I also check in with parents during the session: “Are there any specific expressions or angles you’re hoping to capture?” This invites them into the creative process without disrupting the natural flow.
After the session, I like to let parents know just how well their child did. Children often leave unsure of how they “performed.” A few words of praise go a long way in reinforcing their confidence and making the experience feel positive from start to finish.
Technical Tips for Creative Headshots
Camera Settings That Support Flexibility
Children move fast—and so should your shutter. I usually shoot with a shutter speed of at least 1/250 to ensure I capture crisp images even in motion.
Because I love soft, dreamy backgrounds that keep the child in sharp focus, I typically shoot with a wide aperture—anywhere from f/1.8 to f/2.8 depending on my lens. This creates a creamy bokeh that puts all attention on the child’s expression.
I keep ISO as low as possible to avoid noise, but I won’t hesitate to bump it up if needed—especially in low-light indoor environments. I’d rather have a slightly grainy image with great expression than a technically perfect one that lacks life.
I often shoot in aperture priority mode (Av or A), letting the camera select shutter speed while I control depth of field. In fast-paced sessions, this allows me to stay focused on composition and expression without fiddling with too many settings.
And finally, I always shoot in RAW. This gives me maximum flexibility in post-processing, especially for adjusting exposure and recovering detail in highlights or shadows.
Choosing the Right Lens
The lens you use can dramatically affect the mood and quality of a headshot. My go-to for children’s headshots is a prime lens in the 50mm to 85mm range. These focal lengths are flattering for facial features without distorting perspective.
A 50mm lens gives me the flexibility to shoot in tighter indoor spaces while still offering beautiful background blur. The 85mm is ideal outdoors or in larger studios, allowing me to keep some distance while achieving an intimate feel.
Whatever lens I choose, I prioritize sharpness, speed, and the ability to separate the subject from the background.
If I’m working with especially active kids, I sometimes switch to a zoom lens like a 24–70mm f/2.8. This gives me the ability to quickly adjust my framing without constantly moving, which helps me keep up with spontaneous moments.
Lighting for Expression
Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in headshot photography. I rely heavily on natural light for its softness and honesty. A large north-facing window or open shade outdoors gives me even, flattering light that brings out the child’s features without harsh shadows.
If I’m indoors without ideal natural light, I use a large softbox or umbrella to mimic daylight. I place the light slightly above and off to the side, aiming for a natural catchlight in the eyes.
Catchlights are critical in headshots—they give the eyes life. Without them, even the most expressive child can appear flat. I always position myself and the child to ensure those reflections are present.
I avoid dramatic lighting for children’s headshots. My goal is clarity, softness, and warmth. I want to see every freckle, every eyelash, and every smile line.
What Makes a Creative Headshot Stand Out
It Captures Who They Are
The best headshots don’t just show what a child looks like—they show who they are. They freeze a moment of real emotion, personality, or playfulness in a way that feels intimate and honest.
What makes a headshot stand out is its ability to connect. You look at it and feel something. Maybe it’s a sense of wonder, a memory of your own childhood, or just an appreciation for a fleeting moment that was caught before it passed.
That’s why I never settle for just one expression or one angle. I explore. I play. I wait. Because somewhere in that process, the magic reveals itself.
It Breaks the Mold
Creative headshots defy convention. They go beyond the stiff, traditional look and invite something more artistic, more soulful. Whether it’s a quirky perspective, a bold expression, or a moment of stillness captured just right, these images tell a deeper story.
I want parents to look at a headshot and say, “That’s not just a picture—that’s them.”
Final Words
Photographing children is not always easy—but it’s always worth it. Their energy is wild, their moods unpredictable, and their attention spans short. But that’s exactly why their portraits are so powerful.
A creative children’s headshot session is not about control. It’s about trust. It’s about allowing a child to be fully themselves while gently guiding them toward light, expression, and connection.
When we meet children with patience, humor, and respect, they give us something real in return. A glance. A laugh. A thoughtful moment.
And when we press the shutter at just the right time, we preserve that truth in an image that lasts forever.
That’s the heart of creative children’s headshots. Not perfection—but presence. Not posing—but play. Not performance—but personality.
And in that, we capture something far more beautiful than a smile—we capture the soul of a child.