Photography boost children’s self-esteem. Last year Huffington Post posted this article on the effects of photography and children’s self-esteem. I am a huge believer that photography can make even the most reserved child a little outgoing. Developing a positive body image and self-esteem early on can be critical for your child’s development.

This article states, “For children, in particular, looking at photographs is part of the socializing process; learning who you are and where you fit into the family. By displaying photographs of our children at different stages of their lives, we are making a very public statement that we are proud of them.'”

Early on, neither on of my children were too interested in getting in front of the camera. Over the years as they have grown older, I have noticed my son has become a little more reserved than my daughter, often times refusing to speak or even look up when speaking to someone. My son is very shy but as soon as you get a camera in front of him he’s ready to open up!

I like to think of his progression similar to this little girls story. Her daughter was very, but the dresses and costumes quickly allowed her to become someone else and opened her up!!

Portrait photography is often seen as a no-brainer when it comes to boosting one’s self-esteem. Looking at it from a psychological approach, it seems only natural that a photo shoot would help aid in this process. Oftentimes, women will use a boudoir session as a confidence boost, especially when going through a divorce.

It would stand to reason that it would work for children as well. Portraits, when displayed in the home, can allow children to feel as though they are a part of something bigger. From the article, “It lets children learn who they are and where they fit,” says Judy Weiser. a psychologist, art therapist and author based in Vancouver. “They learn their genealogy and the uniqueness of their own family and its story. When a child sees a family portrait with them included in the photograph they say to themselves: ‘These people have me as part of what they are, that’s why I belong here. This is where I come from.‘”

Over the years I have focused more on how to properly get children more comfortable in front of the camera. It can be hard to watch your painfully shy children force a smile, but with love and patience, they will get better. It takes time, but as long as you are willing to put in the work and not get upset, it will work itself out.

Have you ever thought of using photography to boost your child’s self-esteem? Do your children run away or get extremely shy as soon as a camera shows up? Tell me about it in the comments!