Let’s be honest. Being told to “smile or say cheese" seldom results in a genuine smile. Real smiles come from real moments, movement, and a little bit of silliness. Whether I’m photographing families, couples, or kids, my goal is always the same: create an environment where laughter happens naturally instead of being forced. These are some of my favorite tried-and-true tricks, and why they work so well.

“Give me your most ridiculous smile or silliest face"

When people try to look ridiculous, they usually fail in the best way possible. The effort itself makes them laugh, and that laugh turns into a natural smile right after. Those in-between moments are gold.

“Everyone look at someone else. Go!”

As soon as people stop focusing on the camera, their expressions soften. Looking at each other creates connection, laughter, and genuine reactions that feel much more natural than staring straight ahead.

The Bum Wiggle

I’ll sometimes ask someone to do a little bum wiggle before a photo. It’s unexpected and just awkward enough to break the tension. When people feel a little silly, their guard drops, and the smiles that follow are real instead of posed.

“Look at the person with the stinkiest feet. Or, who took the longest getting ready?”

This one always gets a reaction from families. People immediately start laughing or pointing. This sparks playful teasing and inside jokes, which almost always lead to authentic laughter.

Kids run up behind their parents for surprise hugs

This creates real emotion instantly. Parents aren’t expecting it, kids are excited, and the reactions are genuine every time. These moments often become favorites because they feel real.

Parents tickle the kids

Tickles equal laughter, plain and simple. The key is keeping it short so it stays fun and doesn’t turn into chaos, but those first giggles are perfect.

Bear hugs and kisses all over for couples

Instead of stiff posing, I’ll tell couples to squeeze each other, give big bear hugs, or cover each other in kisses. Physical closeness naturally creates laughter and connection, which shows beautifully in photos.

Know at least a couple Dad jokes

Dad jokes are harmless, corny, and oddly effective. Even eye rolls turn into real smiles, and kids love them more than adults expect.

Have a race

Whether it’s running toward you or racing back to mom and dad, movement loosens everyone up. Kids forget about the camera entirely, and parents usually end up laughing right along with them.

Tell kids not to smile

Kids almost always do the opposite of what you ask. I save this one for my toughest tiny critics. Telling them not to smile usually results in giggles, smirks, and big natural grins that don’t feel forced.

Be ready for the in-between moments

Some of the best smiles happen right after the joke, after the hug, or when everyone thinks the photo is done. I always keep my camera ready because those unplanned moments are often the most genuine and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Real smiles come from real moments. My job isn’t just to take photos, it’s to create an experience where you can relax, laugh, and be yourself. That’s when the magic happens.