Games for a Stress Free Family Photo Session

21 Fun Games to Play During Your Family Photoshoot for Candid Portraits

If the thought of getting everyone to sit still and smile perfectly for a family photoshoot makes you cringe, you’re not alone. Let’s be real—those stiff, forced smiles and awkward poses are not what family photo magic is made of. Instead, why not turn your session into a playful experience that captures real moments? By incorporating fun games and activities, your photographer can snap those candid, joyful interactions that show off your family’s true personality.

Not sure where to start? No worries! I’ve got you covered with 21 fun game ideas that will keep everyone relaxed, engaged, and actually having fun. From classic games to silly challenges, these ideas will help create photos you’ll love looking back on for years to come.

1. Red Light / Green Light

How to Play: This classic game is a hit with kids of all ages. One person shouts “green light!” and everyone runs around. When “red light!” is called, everyone has to freeze. It’s perfect for getting action shots with lots of movement and laughter. Have the photographer or mom and dad call the shots and everyone will be sure to start laughing.

2. Airplane Rides

How to Play: Mom or Dad can take turns picking up the little ones and swinging them like an airplane. For older kids, try lifting them and spinning in a circle. This is perfect for parents with younger kids who love a good thrill. The laughter and excitement will lead to some amazing close-up expressions!

3. Tickle Fights

How to Play: No rules here—just a good old-fashioned tickle fight! Have one parent start off, and then let the kids try to “defend” themselves or team up to tickle back. Keep this one light and short to avoid any real squirming, and be ready to capture the giggles and snuggles that follow.

4. Sibling Chase

How to Play: Have parents stand still while the siblings run around them in circles. This game is great for families who want high-energy shots with lots of movement and motion blur for that added element of fun.

5. Simon Says

How to Play: You know the drill—one person is “Simon” and gives directions like “Simon says jump,” or “Simon says dance!” Throw in a mix of silly and sweet commands for playful shots. Make it a group game and switch up who gets to be Simon so that everyone gets a chance to lead.

6. Animal Counting

How to Play: Get everyone sitting down either around a body of water or just outside to “count turtles” (or birds, or even pretend things like “invisible ninjas”). This works wonders for getting calm, quiet moments with soft expressions as the kids engage in imaginative play.

7. Jumping Photos

How to Play: Find a large area to do jumping photos or find a large, sturdy rock that’s safe for jumping off. Have the kids jump off one by one, holding a parent’s hands. Snap some mid-air action shots for a fun, adventurous feel, and capture the triumphant smiles when they land.

8. Swinging Between Parents

How to Play: Hold your child’s hands on each side and swing them gently between you. For older kids, try taking a few steps and then swinging them higher for more excitement. Alternate between gentle swings and higher, bigger swings to capture a mix of expressions.

9. Piggy Back Races

How to Play: Have kids take turns racing on a parent’s back. First one to reach a designated spot wins! This one’s all about energy and movement, so get ready for some dynamic shots full of smiles and a few “we’re-going-to-crash!” moments.

10. Ride on Dad’s Shoulders

How to Play: This one’s simple but always a crowd-pleaser. Have dad (or mom) give piggyback rides or shoulder rides and let the kids goof off, make silly faces, or wave at the camera. Works great for getting height variation in photos and a sense of perspective that puts the kids in a fun, playful spot.

11. Escape from the Hug!

How to Play: Challenge the kids to “escape” from a big bear hug from mom or dad. The game ends when everyone’s in a heap of giggles on the ground. Focus on the chase and the final group snuggle at the end for a combination of high-energy and sweet shots.

12. Ring Around the Rosie

How to Play: Classic, simple, and oh-so-sweet. Everyone holds hands in a circle, sings “Ring Around the Rosie,” and falls down at the end. This is perfect for younger kids and can result in fun, twirling shots that show movement, connection, and joy.

13. Blanket Runs

How to Play: Have parents hold a large blanket or quilt high up in the air while the kids run under it. Try a few rounds where parents surprise them by dropping it down! This is perfect for windy days when you can catch the blanket fluttering for some dramatic, playful action.

14. Cloud Gazing

How to Play: Have everyone lay down on a blanket and look up at the clouds, trying to spot shapes. It’s a calm and quiet activity that’s perfect for creating serene family photos. Works best for getting calm, thoughtful expressions, and some adorable head-on-shoulder moments.

15. Sneak Attack

How to Play: One parent sneaks up behind a kiddo and scoops them up for tickles, a twirl, or a toss in the air. Try different variations—spin them in a circle, turn them upside down, or gently toss them for that “airtime” joy.

16. Follow the Leader

How to Play: Designate one person as the leader, and have everyone else follow along mimicking their movements. Swap leaders so each family member gets a turn, making for a mix of silly walks, jumps, and maybe even a few twirls.

17. Freeze Dance

How to Play: Put on some music and let everyone dance it out. When the music stops, everyone freezes! Choose upbeat, playful songs that will have everyone wiggling, hopping, and shaking to keep the energy high.

18. Snack Time Fun

How to Play: Bring along a special snack like strawberries and whipped cream, and let the kids get a little messy while eating. Perfect for ending the session with sweet smiles and happy tummies.

19. Storytime

How to Play: Bring a favorite family book and have one parent read while everyone snuggles in close to listen. This works beautifully for more intimate, connected shots and a calming end to a high-energy shoot.

20. Spin in Circles

How to Play: The only rule for spinning in circles is to choose a soft spot in case kiddos get dizzy and fall. You want soft grass and no hard rocks.

21. Hide and Seek

How to Play: Try to limit the play area so it’s not too far spread out and capture fun photos of kiddos and parents hunting for each other behind trees or rocks.

Creating Genuine Family Memories Through Playful Moments

The best family photos are the ones that show you having fun together. So, next time you’re heading into a family photo session, skip the pressure of getting everyone to “sit pretty” and instead try some of these playful games. Not only will your family have a blast, but you’ll walk away with pictures that capture your love, connection, and laughter—just the way you are.