How to Get Through a Long Photo Shoot With a Child

Long photo shoots can be boring for young children.

Anyone who has ever modeled knows how long and boring photo shoots can be. There is always more waiting around than anything else, and a lot of retaking of photographs. For a young child, this process can be extremely long and daunting, and he will get bored and tired easily. As a parent, you know the child will not perform as well when the camera comes out, and he will almost certainly drive you crazy as the day progresses. Here are some tips for helping get a child through a long photo shoot.

Things You'll Need

• Child's backpack
• Children's books
• Coloring book
• Crayons
• Journal
• Snacks
• Drink boxes

Instructions

1. Stock up on new, little toys. Visit a dollar store and purchase a few items before the photo shoot. The cost of the item does not matter, only that it is new. The child will be thrilled to have something brand new, and this will occupy her for a while as the pictures are being taken. (Do not let the child have or see these items until she is at the photo shoot.)

2. Pack a snack bag, as hungry kids tend to be cranky kids. Use the child's lunchbox and have him help pack it up. Make sure to include healthy snacks, as sugary foods will have a negative effect on the child, especially after a few hours. Try to find snacks that will make minimal mess. Bring a large, oversized T-shirt for the child to wear when having a snack, to avoid soiling his clothing.

3. Pack a backpack with the child's favorite activity items, like coloring books, crayons, books, journals (for school-age children), pencils and other toys they may enjoy. Travel video games are also a fine treat at long photo shoots.

4. The night before the shoot, be sure your child has a good night's sleep, to avoid any tired and cranky moods the next day. If your child is young and the drive to the photo shoot is long, make sure to take a pillow and blanket in the car with you.

5. Arrive a few minutes early, but not too early. If this is going to be a lengthy shoot, you don't want to add unnecessary time at the studio or location. Find out what time you are to be there and plan to be 10 to 15 minutes early, unless otherwise requested.

6. Take frequent walks. If you are outdoors, take short walks around the area to keep the child from getting antsy. If you are indoors, explore the building if you can. Make sure you know how much time you have until your child is needed. Going for walks keeps the blood flowing, and will help keep your child in a better mood.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack your bags the night before, to avoid forgetting anything in a last-minute rush.

• Know your child's limits. If she eabsolutely doesn't want to model, don't force her.