Getting Dad In The Photos | Fort Worth Family Photographer

Let’s set the scene: You’re all excited to book your next family photo session. You’ve been pinning outfit ideas, picturing golden-hour light, imagining those frame-worthy shots on your gallery wall… and then you break the news to your partner.

Cue the eye roll.

It’s a story I hear all the time. Dad isn’t exactly thrilled about being in front of the camera. He says he doesn’t know how to pose, that he’d rather do anything else, or that he doesn’t see the point. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: I get it. And honestly? Most dads feel the same way—until they show up and realize it’s not what they expected.

Why Dads Resist (and Why It’s Totally Normal)

Family photos have a reputation for being stiff, overly posed, and kind of awkward. If the last time he had professional photos taken was at your wedding or for a corporate headshot, he probably assumes this experience will be more of the same.

But the sessions I lead are nothing like that. We move. We laugh. I give prompts that get you interacting with your kids instead of staring blankly at the lens. It’s about capturing connection—not perfection.

How to Get Him On Board

Here are a few tried-and-true tips that might help ease him into the idea:

1. Reframe the Purpose

Instead of “we’re getting professional photos taken,” try: “I want some photos of us just being together. I want to remember this stage.”

2. Keep it Realistic  

Let him know the session will be short and sweet. I’m all about efficiency without sacrificing authenticity. If it’s a mini session, even better.

3. Let Him Be Himself  

There’s no need for fake smiles or stiff posing. If he’s playful with the kids, that’s what I want to capture. If he’s the quiet, steady one, that comes through too.

4. Use the “Do it for the Kids” Card  

Because truly, years from now, your kids won’t care how perfectly anyone posed. They’ll care that Dad was *there*, loving them, holding their tiny hands, tossing them in the air.

5. Promise Something Fun After  

Photos followed by tacos or ice cream? Sold.

The Secret? Most Dads End Up Enjoying It.

I can’t count how many times a dad has told me after a session, “That was actually kind of fun.” They just need someone to guide them, to take the pressure off, and to let the moments unfold naturally.

At the end of the day, your partner doesn’t have to love the idea of photos. But chances are, he’ll love the memories captured. And you will too.

Ready to book a session the whole family will enjoy? Let’s make it happen.