If you’re a parent, you’ll know that getting a photo of your kids smiling nicely at the same time can feel like chasing unicorns. But here’s the good news—it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.

I absolutely love photographing siblings. Whether they’re cheeky toddlers, tweens, or a bit of both, those sibling dynamics are full of magic just waiting to be captured. With a little preparation (and a lot of patience), we can create some truly heart-melting moments that show off their bond just as it is—messy, sweet, funny, and oh-so-real.

Here are my top 5 tips to help you get gorgeous, natural sibling portraits that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Don’t Force The Moment

Kids can smell stress a mile away. If they sense you really need them to “behave,” chances are, they’ll resist. I always aim to keep things light and playful, never forcing a pose or a smile. Sometimes the best thing you can do is take a step back, let them interact, and give them space to just be kids. I promise—those spontaneous giggles or tight sibling cuddles are worth way more than a perfect pose.

Sometimes it’s in the chaos that we find the most beautiful moments.

Keep Hands Busy

Little hands love to fidget! Giving siblings something to do can really help with focus and connection. It might be holding hands, hugging, dancing, or playing a little game like “copy me” or “tickle attack.” These kinds of prompts naturally draw them into each other’s space and help them relax—and that’s when the magic happens.

Hands = connection. Use them to draw in your kiddos and keep the energy flowing.

Embrace the Age & Stage

Your toddler might not sit still. Your eight-year-old might be a bit shy. That’s okay. Every child brings something totally unique to the session, and that’s exactly what I want to capture. Whether they’re snuggled up quietly or bursting into giggles, your kids are perfect exactly as they are.

I gently guide the shoot with cues based on their energy—not on expectations of what they “should” do. And if someone needs a break? No stress. We let them come back when they’re ready.

Bring the Comfort Items

If one of your little ones has a favourite toy, blanket, or even a matching pair of gumboots they have to wear—bring it! These are the small, real details that make your family story yours. Sometimes a comfort item helps break the ice, or even becomes a sweet memory in the photo itself. And snacks—always bring snacks.

A full belly and a comfort toy can work wonders.

Celebrate Connection, Not Perfection

The photos you’ll love most won’t be the ones where everyone’s perfectly posed – they’ll be the ones that show your children as they are. The big hugs. The tiny kisses. The way they make each other laugh. The way your eldest watches over the youngest. These are the moments I’m always watching for. So left go of any pressure for things to go a certain way and trust in the process. We’ll create something beautiful together – I promise.

Sibling portraits aren’t about stiff smiles or “say cheese.” They’re about love. About personality. About capturing the bond between your little ones just as it is today. Because these seasons move so fast, and it’s those real, tender, joyful moments that you’ll look back on with the most heart.

If you’re ready to capture your kids together, exactly as they are—mischief and all—I’d love to photograph them for you.

Lucy x