Ready to preserve first-day-back-to-school memories? Insider tips for taking top kid shots.

1 Let them be spontaneous.
The most beautiful photos aren’t posed—they’re the ones that capture a moment. Since kids are always on the move, keep a camera close at all times.

2 Reward them.
Show your kids the pictures as you take them. Children crave that immediate gratification. This little bit of incentive will yield their cooperation—and happier faces.

3 Interact.
Tell them jokes and funny stories and ask them to repeat silly phrases to get them to relax and open up. The payoff? No more cheesy, strained smiles.

Source: Tom Corbett, professional photographer and dad