Want Your Husband on Board for Photos? Here’s How.
If you’re on social media, you’ll see countless memes, Tiktoks, and reels all focusing on how husbands are the worst when it comes to taking pictures. It seems we know how to get our kids on board but we can’t crack the code of how to get the husband to enjoy family pictures. So here are my top tips to get your partner excited for your upcoming session:
Pick a good photographer
Don’t pick a photographer who will simply give you “just a picture”. Anyone can snap a photo of everyone smiling at the camera. To help your husband be on board with family photos, make sure you book a professional who gives an amazing client experience. A lot of dads leave a session feeling like an accessory, not an essential part of the family. Does the photographer you’re booking take time to make sure dads get the facetime they deserve? Can your photographer connect with your husband in a fun and friendly way so he feels comfortable? The photographer is the first place to start.
Get his ideas
Take some time to show your partner your photographer's blog or scroll through Pinterest and find what kind of poses or pictures he likes. But don’t leave it as like or dislike. Have him tell you why a certain photo stands out to him. Relay this information to your photographer so they can be sure to get photos that both mom AND dad will love.
What’s he afraid of?
Oftentimes a big reason spouses may act out before or during a session is that they’re self-conscious. As much as we want to pretend that body issues are a women’s only game, men can feel just as nervous stepping in front of a camera as women. If your husband is self-conscious about his dad bod, let your photographer know so they can make sure they pose in ways that are flattering for everyone. If your husband sees that he looks handsome in photos, he’ll be much more likely to be on board for future sessions.
Tell him the truth
Being honest with how much these photos mean to you and how your partner can help you will get you on the right foot from the beginning. In my experience, most couples want to be helpful and try to make their spouse happy. The trouble comes from them not knowing how to do it. If you lay out exactly what your husband can do (oversee snacks, help get kids dressed once we get to the location, be playful with the kids, don’t complain even if it feels weird, etc) he’ll be way more likely to be an active and supportive participant.
Show gratitude
When the session is over, thank him. Thank him for his patience, and for his playfulness with the kids. Use your words and use actions to show your gratitude. Have a family date night, or have his favorite treat waiting for him at home. However you show love, take a minute to do it. When you get your pictures back, rave about how good he looks, how happy the kids are with him, or how much it means to you to have the pictures. And then, do something with the photos. He’s less likely to think the session was a waste of time if you hang a few, make a book, or send a Christmas card. Show him how much you love the pictures and your family by showing off your pictures.
