Why It’s Okay If Your Kids Aren’t Perfect During Your Photo Session

If you’ve ever skipped family photos because you were worried your kids wouldn’t cooperate – this one’s for you.

As parents, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves (and our kids!) to “behave” for the camera. But at Smith & Co, we believe real moments are better than perfect poses. We’ve photographed hundreds of families throughout Detroit and Southeast Michigan, and guess what? The so-called “imperfect” sessions often turn out to be the most magical.

Ann Arbor Family Photographer

Why We Love Wiggly Kids and Candid Chaos

1. Genuine Moments > Forced Smiles
The best photos aren’t the ones where everyone’s saying cheese. They’re the ones where you’re all laughing, snuggling, or playing a silly game. We encourage movement, connection, and fun because that’s when the real magic happens.

2. You’ll Remember Their Personality
Years from now, you won’t just want a photo of your child smiling perfectly. You’ll want the photo where they were twirling in the grass, making their goofy face, or clinging to your leg. All those little things they do (even the annoying ones) are the things you will miss one day, so why not capture it. That’s the good stuff.

Michigan family photographer

3. We’re Used to Wiggles and Meltdowns
Our photographers are patient, playful, and pros at working with all ages – from newborns to pre-teens. If someone needs a break, a snack, or a cuddle, that’s totally okay. We’ll work with the rhythm of your family.

Detroit family photo ideas

4. It’s All Part of the Story
No one’s life is Pinterest-perfect. And that’s the beauty of it. We love capturing the honesty, chaos, and love that makes your family one-of-a-kind.

So if you’re in Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, or anywhere in Southeast Michigan, and you’re putting off family portraits because you’re worried they won’t be “perfect” – we invite you to let go of that pressure. Come as you are. We’ll do the rest.

📷 Let’s make beautiful memories (even the messy kind).