Dads can be a tough nut to crack when it comes to having them act natural in photos.

I’ve been on photo shoots with Dads who love the idea of family portraits and are willing to do whatever it takes to get great family portraits. And I’ve had Dads who would rather be doing anything rather than standing in front of a camera.

I’ve come up with a few ideas to get Dad acting more natural and loosen up for your family portraits.

Make him laugh
Tell a corny joke or ask him to tell a ‘dad’ joke. Even if the kids don’t laugh, you’ll get a genuine smile out of him.

Have him lead the kids in showing their muscles
Strong man poses are definitely a fun activity for dad to do with the kids. Plus, kids love showing off their muscles too, so it’s a win-win! Dad can also hold his children with his arms which little ones love!

Tell him to lift a child up in the air
This is a fun one for both Dad and son/daughter! The kids laugh as does down as they go up and down in the air.

Have him run with his kids
Kids love to run and chase their Dad! You get fun action photos. Dad is moving around not having to stand still with the pressure of smiling, and everyone loosens up for more natural family portraits.

Tickle, tickle!
Dads are infamous (or at least mine is!) for tickling their children. Everyone starts laughing and smile!

Big hugs and kisses
Youngers kids love this! Giving Dad hugs and kisses are the best! If you’re photographing older kids, have Dad give them a hug and kiss on the head. Small moments captured with love!

Have them re-enact an old photo
This is a favorite of mine when I’m photographing older kids. I ask them if they remember a fun or funny photo with Dad. Most of the time, they do. So I ask them to re-enact it which always proves to be a favorite!

With Father’s Day around the corner, these are sure to get Dad great family portraits!

Emily Ingalls is a family and newborn photographer located in Round Rock, Texas. She specializes in family and child portraiture, lifestyle newborn photography, and school and commercial photography.