Natural Prompts for Authentic Photos

Make Your Subject Shine with Fun Photography Prompts!

Are you struggling to make your subjects look natural? Tired of stiff, posed portraits? You’re not alone! Stiff images are out, and lifestyle photography is in. But how do you make people look natural when they know they’re posing? The secret is Natural Photo Prompts for Authentic Photos!

In our blog, you’ll learn what photo prompts are, how to use them, and discover a huge list of prompts for various portraits. We’ll even share some of our favorite examples. Opposite of posed photos, prompts bring out genuine feelings and actions, making your subjects act naturally. Whether you’re working with adults, children, or large groups, using prompts is the perfect way to capture those candid, natural moments! Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Child Portraits

Photographing kids can be a wild ride—they get distracted easily and hate sitting still. Plus, they really don’t like being told what to do. So, let’s turn this into a fun game where they’re in the driver’s seat!

Did you hear that? No? Shhh, listen carefully.
Give me your best twirl!
Let’s see how high you can Jump!
Throw something in the air! (A ball, a bunch of autumn leaves, just not rocks!)
Show me your funniest face!
Tell me about the most amazing thing you’ve ever seen.
Pull your ears and stick your tongue out—be serious about it!

Whisper a funny secret to your sibling, parent, grandparent, etc.
Pretend you’re a superhero. Show me your superpowers!
Play with bubbles! Kids love bubbles, if you bring some, we promise there will be tons of exciting photos!
Run towards me like you’re escaping from a monster!
Blow a kiss to parents or put parents behind the kiddos and have the kiddos blow the kiss to the camera
Tell me what you want to be when you grow up, and then show me your best impression!

These prompts turn a photo session into a playful adventure, ensuring we capture their true, joyful spirit!

Natural Adult Portraits

Snapping solo shots can sometimes be a bit nerve-wracking, but these natural prompts for authentic photos will help you loosen up and let your natural charm shine through. The most important thing to remember is that you should be comfortable. Don’t wear that new outfit you aren’t sure about. Wear something you know makes you feel your best and we’ll do the rest!

Show me your best “shake it off!”
Strut towards me like you’re on a fashion runway.
Walk away and give me a dramatic turn when I call your name.
Think back to a time when you felt incredibly proud.
Remember a hilarious moment and let that laughter out. Let’s talk it out, we’d love to make you laugh!
Run your hands through your hair like you’re in a shampoo ad.
Adjust your jacket or scarf like you’re getting ready for the perfect shot.

Show me your best “Blue Steel!”
Show me your signature dance move!
Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and open them when I say.
Tilt your head side-to-side, smile, and think of something irresistibly cute, like a puppy or kitten.
Pretend you just heard the best news ever and show me your reaction.
Give me your fiercest rock star stance.
Imagine you’re on a tropical beach – how would you feel? Or maybe you prefer the snow, we don’t judge!

Let’s have some fun and capture your awesomeness!

Photo fun with your Pet!

Humans aren’t the only ones who can strike a pose! Pets can nail those natural prompts too! Check out these fun cues for capturing the perfect pet photo or family portrait with your furry friend:

Staaayyyy! 📸
Treat Toss: Chuck a treat from afar for that perfect action shot.
Follow the Leader: Have the owner run towards the camera with the pet in tow.
Good Boy/Girl! 🐾
Peek-a-Boo: Hold a ball or feather above the camera and wiggle it to grab their attention.
Sound Off: Bark or meow in different pitches to keep them curious.
Branch Bait: Perch a treat or toy on a tree branch to pique their interest.
Squeaky Fun: Use a squeaky toy to make them perk up.
Jump for Joy: Hold a treat or toy and lift your arm quickly to get them jumping.
Look Here, Look There: Move a treat or toy around to make them look in different directions.
Owner Interaction: Get owners to pet, play, or ask for a paw – every pet has their own special prompts!

Capture those adorable moments with these playful and engaging tips! 🐶🐱✨

Authentic Prompts for Couples

Capturing couples can be sweet and romantic, but don’t forget to add a splash of fun and silliness! Here are some awesome prompts for couples photoshoots:

Crossed Arms Toast: Hold out champagne glasses, cross arms, and drink.
Romantic Dip: Slow dance and take a dramatic dip.
Eskimo Kiss: Rub noses for that adorable moment.
Almost Kiss: Lean in for a kiss but stop just before your lips touch.
Reunion Run: Run towards each other like you haven’t seen each other in ages.
Gift Exchange: Hand a flower (or any prop) to your partner.
Stroll Together: Hold hands and walk, capturing those candid moments.
Future Gaze: Look towards the horizon and imagine your future together.
First Kiss Recall: Look into each other’s eyes and remember the first time you kissed.
Happy Memory: Think about the happiest memory you have together.
Cheers!: Hold out champagne glasses and make a toast.
Silly Dance: Dance as silly as you can.
Hair Play: Play with your partner’s hair.
Collar Fix: Fix his shirt collar or tie for a caring touch.
Flower Power: Place a flower in her ear.
Back Hug: Hug your partner from behind.
Piggyback Ride: Give her/him a piggyback ride.
Frosting Fun: Use a cake (for anniversary photos) and smear frosting on his/her face.

Mix up the sweet with the playful to create unforgettable and authentic moments!

Natural Family Photo Prompts

Using prompts when taking family photos can be a blast! These prompts are versatile and can work with siblings, parents, or the whole gang. Pick the best ones based on your family’s vibe and ages.

“Check out your kids—they’re adorable!”
“Give each other the biggest, squishiest hug!”
“Show me who’s the tickle champ!”
“Look at each other, but whatever you do—don’t laugh!”
“Let’s make a human pyramid!”
“Have a pillow fight!”
“Play red light-green light towards the camera or up and down the stairs!”
“Hold mom and dad’s hands and jump as HIGH as you can!” (Perfect for toddlers)
“Line up in order of who’s the funniest, then the smartest, and so on.”
“Give the kids a piggyback ride!”
“Play tag—you’re it!”
“Parents, stay as still as statues. Kids, tickle them!”
“Everyone look at the camera and cover your faces. When I say ‘Peek-a-Boo,’ drop your hands and shout ‘I see you!'”
“Siblings only—whisper a funny secret that mom and dad don’t know!”
“Throw some balls, frisbees, or any activity you love doing together!”
“Sit down on a blanket like you’re having a picnic (pretend food and props welcome).”
“If you were a music band or superheroes, how would you pose?”