Picture this scene: You’re shooting a children’s photo session and the kids are crying, their parents are frazzled, and no one is having a good time, especially not you. Maybe you’ve experienced this yourself, or you’ve at least heard horror stories about this happening. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are strategies you can use to make it a more playful and fun photo session. Happy kiddos equal happy photos, after all.  In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Melissa Miller, a children and family photographer and educator. She shares why children-led photo sessions that incorporate play lead to better photos, why the pre-session questionnaire for kids is so important, and some tips for photographing shy or reserved children. What’s in this episode: [02:15] Melissa’s approach to children-led, playful photo sessions, and the importance of a pre-session questionnaire  [03:47] Her advice for photographers who might not naturally connect with children [05:52] Melissa’s suggestions for a particularly tough session with kids who are upset or don’t want to be photographed [09:16] What to do when you’re photographing children who are shy or introverted [10:05] How honoring your child’s wishes of not wanting their photo posted online is important [20:03] Something Melissa wishes every photographer knew about themselves Tune in to this episode for tips on children-led, playful photo sessions that don’t end in tears. For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/lets-play-advice-for-fun-playful-child-led-photo-sessions-with-melissa-miller Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.