5 tips for how to convince your partner to participate in (and enjoy!) family photos
If you’ve ever felt nervous about asking your partner to take family photos, you’re not alone. As moms, we often dream of capturing those sweet, fleeting moments with our children. But sometimes, convincing your significant other to join in can feel like an uphill battle. Maybe he doesn’t love being in front of the camera, maybe he worries it will feel awkward, or maybe he just doesn’t understand how meaningful it is to you.
The truth is, family photos aren’t just about pretty pictures. They’re about preserving your story—your love, your connection, and your little ones exactly as they are right now. And when your partner sees how valuable and joy-filled these sessions can be, chances are he'll walk away grateful that you did them.
So how do you get him from reluctant to a willing (and maybe even excited) participant? Here are five tips to help convince your partner to not only participate in family photos—but actually enjoy them.
1. Share why photos matter to you
Many times, resistance comes from not really understanding why something is important. Take a moment to share your heart with your partner. Explain that these photos aren’t just for today—they’re keepsakes for your children, treasures that will be looked back on years down the road.
You might say, “I don’t just want pictures of the kids. I want them to have memories of us together as a family, with you in them too.”
Sometimes, framing it this way helps your spouse see that this isn’t about having “perfect” photos—it’s about capturing real love, real connection, and a legacy that will matter long after today.
2. Let him know what to expect
For many men, the unknown is the hardest part. Will they be asked to pose awkwardly? Will it drag on for hours? Will they have to fake smiles? Reassure him that family photo sessions don’t have to be stiff or uncomfortable.
When you work with a photographer who specializes in families (like I do here in Ketchikan), the focus is on connection, play, and natural moments. You’ll cuddle, laugh, toss your kids in the air, and just be together. It’s more like hanging out as a family than a formal photoshoot.
When he realizes he won’t be standing in front of a camera saying “cheese” a hundred times, he’ll probably breathe a big sigh of relief.
3. Keep it stress-free
Nothing sucks the fun out of the morning than a stressed-out lead-up to the photos. If everyone’s rushed, running late, or arguing over outfits, of course it won’t feel fun. As much as possible, try to keep the experience relaxed.
Plan ahead for clothing so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Choose a time of day that works well for your kids’ moods (and his, too!). And most importantly, remind yourself that your family doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—you just need to show up as you.
The less pressure there is, the easier it will be for him to genuinely enjoy the session.
4. Highlight the fun side
Your spouse might be imagining an hour of stiff smiling and worrying the kids will act up—but family photos can actually be a lot of fun. Kids running around, little ones giggling, spontaneous moments of affection—these are the things that make a session feel real and joyful.
Sometimes it helps to tell your partner, “This isn’t about perfect smiles; it’s about capturing us as we are.” Once he realizes that he can relax, play with the kids, and just focus on being present, the idea of photos becomes a lot more appealing. Also, during photos is not the time to discipline. Just redirect and be playful!
Plus, most dads end up being surprised at how much fun they have when they get to just be themselves with the people they love most.
5. Share the results
If your spouse is still hesitant, sometimes the biggest shift happens when he sees the photos afterward. There’s nothing quite like looking at an image of your child snuggled into his arms or laughing together as a family.
Seeing himself reflected as a loving, engaged dad often changes the way men feel about photos. They realize: “Oh. This isn’t about me looking good—it’s about capturing what matters.”
So even if it takes a little encouragement to get him there the first time, chances are he’ll be much more willing the next time around.
Why it’s worth it
At the end of the day, family photos are about more than just documenting faces—they’re about capturing love, connection, and a story that will outlast us. Years from now, your children won’t remember whether dad felt awkward for a few minutes. What they will remember is that he showed up. They’ll see the joy on his face, the way he held them, the laughter you shared as a family.
And that’s the kind of gift that lasts forever.
Ready to book your family session?
If you’ve been dreaming of family photos that feel natural, joyful, and true to who you are, I would love to capture them for you. I specialize in creating relaxed, meaningful sessions that celebrate your family’s unique story.
Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment—because every stage of family life is worth remembering. Reach out today to book your session, and let’s create photos that you and your spouse will cherish for a lifetime.
Contact Christina Chacharon Photography to schedule your family photo session today!
