If you’ve ever tried to take a photo of your child and said, “Smile! Say cheese!” you probably know what happens next.

That stiff little grin or weird scared face smile.
Scrunched up eyes.
A serious effort to do the right thing but….

….the expression on their face looks nothing like the child you know.

That’s exactly why I created my Pop Up Mini Personality Portrait Sessions.

Because the most meaningful photos of kids rarely happen when they are trying to perform for the camera. They happen when they’re simply being themselves.

As a New Jersey photographer, I love creating portraits that capture kids exactly as they are in this moment - the giggles, the expressions they give when thinking of their favorite show, the silly faces and everything in between.

Kids Don’t Need to Perform for Great Photos

One of the things I love most about photographing youg children is that they are completely themselves.

They are silly.
They are curious.
They say exactly what they are thinking.
And sometimes they are serious.

And all of those expressions are worth remembering.

When kids feel like they have to “stand there and say cheese” in front of the camera, they often freeze up. But when that pressure disappears, their real personality usually starts to shine through.

As a New Jersey kids photographer, those natural moments are always the ones I’m watching for.

Personality Over Perfect Poses

The goal of these sessions isn’t perfectly posed portraits.

It’s capturing the little things that make your child them right now in this very moment.

Their gap-toothed grin.
Their mischievous smirk.
Their thoughtful stare.
Their contagious laugh.
Their new braces!

Kids change so quickly. The expressions and little quirks you see today will be completely different in just a few short months!

These portraits freeze that moment in time.

Families I have photographed throughout Morris County, NJ often tell me these end up being some of their favorite photos because they feel so real.

What Happens During a Personality Portrait Session

My Pop Up Mini with BIG Personality Sessions are designed to be short, simple and fun.

These sessions take place in front of a simple backdrop and focus entirely on your child’s expressions and personality.

During the session we spend a few minutes chatting, laughing and letting your child feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Sometimes they:

• tell me about their favorite sport
• show me their silliest face
• burst into giggles
• or maybe even shed some tears - and that is totally ok!

Because every child shows up differently and that’s exactly what makes these portraits so special.

Many parents love these quick sessions because they’re easy and fun for kids. No long drawn out sessions in the cold where they might lose it halfway in.

The Magic Is in the In-Between Moments

Some of my favorite photos happen in the split second between expressions.

Right after a fake laugh.
When they’re thinking about what to say next.
When they hear their fave song play.
When asked about their boyfriend or girlfriend!

Those little in-between moments often end up being the photos parents treasure most.

What Should Kids Wear for Personality Portraits?

One of the best things about these sessions is that wardrobe can stay simple.

Because the focus is on your child’s face and personality, I usually recommend clothing that doesn’t distract from their expression.

A few easy tips:

• Solid colors photograph beautifully
• Soft neutrals or classic colors work great
• Simple stripes, patterns or textures
• Avoid large logos or overly busy patterns and neons!
• Layers like denim jackets or cardigans can add texture
• Fun accessories - cute glasses, pop of color from converse, fun necklace etc…

Simple outfits keep the focus where it belongs - on your child.

Pop Up Personality Portrait Sessions in Morris County, New Jersey

My Pop Up Mini Personality Sessions take place here in Morristown, NJ and are perfect for families looking to document:

• milestone ages and special birthdays
• siblings sessions
• 6 month to yearly personality portraits
• updating school photos
• something new has happened - for example new haircut!

Many families from across Morris County NJ make these sessions part of their yearly tradition because they capture how much kids change from year to year.

Capturing Childhood As It Is Right Now

As a Morris County NJ photographer, one of the things I love most is documenting childhood exactly as it is - the laughter, the quirks and the personalities that make each child unique.

Because one day you’ll look back at these photos and realize it was the last time - the last time they nervously curled their hair or bit their bottom lip, the last time they made that awkward crooked smile or the last time they had rolls for days.

But right now?

This is exactly who they are.

And that’s worth remembering.

Interested in Personality Portrait Minis In Morris County NJ?

If you’d love a set of personality portraits that capture your child’s unique personality, my Pop Up Minis are a perfect fit. You can sign up for the upcoming Saturday session HERE as well as check out more info on my Investment page.

Otherwise, you can learn more about these sessions by sending me an email or join the email list for first access to booking at A Lovely Shade of Jade Photography.

Filed Under:
Pop Up Minis | Kids Portraits | Morris County NJ Photographer