Preschool Portraits-Genuine Expressions/Bay Area Preschool Photographer

I just finished photographing my last preschool for the 2025/2026 school year! I thought I would give some tips and tricks on how I get genuine smiles and expressions from a 60 second interaction. Here are a few ideas you can try during your next portrait session.

  1. Bring ANY stuffed animal - preferably small enough to sit on your head. Say, “ I need your help. Can you tell me if this is a snake?” Putting it on your head makes them look up or directly at you and saying the wrong animal name is an immediate giggle.

  2. Bring stickers - turn your head, put one on your nose and say “is there something on my face?”

  3. Memorize silly words - have them repeat words or phrases like “Marshmallow muffin man” or “Snickerdoodle dizzle dazzle”

  4. Ask “Are you married?” - This one works on everyone!

  5. Don’t be afraid to be silly. I always bring small soft ball. Sometimes I throw it in the air and pretend it hits me in the head. You can also play catch - usually kids smile right after they catch it.

Here are a few images I captured by using all the tricks listed above.

Sarah SlaytonComment