How many times have you tried to photograph your child, only to get that classic cheesy smile—scrunched up nose, squinty eyes, and all? It’s cute, but doesn’t quite capture the joy you’re after. Instead of relying on “say cheese” (which usually results in forced grins), try embracing more natural moments. As a Bay Area Family Photographer, I know capturing an authentic smile is easier when children are simply enjoying themselves.

1. Play and Engage with Your Child

Play is the best way to connect with kids. Talk to them about what they are doing and point out something positive or interesting you notice. Follow their lead. Kids love to to be engaged around their interests and ideas, so interact with your child authentically and you’ll be sure to capture some sweet smiles.

2. Observe What Your Child Is Naturally Drawn to and Capitalize on Those Moments

Notice what makes them happy and what they love to do. Take photos of them doing those things or wearing a favorite outfit since these are also the memories you’ll want to hold onto as your child grows. And we know that happens all to fast. Toys, characters, stuffies, favorite books all come in stages and each stage is just as important as the one before.

3. Being Silly Always Leads to an Authentic Smile

The sillier the better. Depending on your child’s age or sense of humor, try making a funny face, telling goofy jokes, or (if they’re the right age) going for some playful potty humor. It works every time, especially with preschool/elementary-aged children. You could even illicit the help of another adult or older child to help be silly while standing behind you. This allows you to focus on the photo while your partner helps you nab some adorable giggles and you’ll be less likely to miss the moment.

4. Tell Your Child Not to Smile or Laugh

This works like a charm almost every time. Kids love it when they get to be a little defiant. And if you keep it going, “Hey! I said not to smile!” you might even get bigger smiles and giggles to boot!

5. Tickles

Who can resist smiling and laughing with a good tickle. Just don’t overdo it as this could also turn your child off if the experience is too much and can also be sensory-overload for some kids. Just be sure to read facial cues and body language to see if it’s too much for their sensory systems.

6. Allow Them to be a Little Mischievous

Make sure you are keeping your child safe and not doing anything you are not comfortable with, but kids love being able to test a little. It’s part of childhood after all! So give it to this desire a little bit for a little sneaky smile and laugh.

7. Laugh and Have Fun

Laughter is often contagious! If you laugh and have fun, your child likely will too. Most importantly, let go of your expectations and join in the fun. Keep your camera (or phone) close by and those smiles will come.

Take your time and wait for the right moment. Don’t force it. As adults, we generally have our own agendas, but the more you push your child to smile the more likely they will lose interest altogether. And a bonus tip is that your child doesn’t always have to look at the camera or even smile to create a beautiful portrait that you will treasure. Follow the tips above and the right moment will surely come along.At the end of the day, the most important thing is to capture your child as they are, in their unique, playful world. Those candid moments—the unexpected giggles, the shy smiles, or even the silly faces—will be the ones you look back on with love.