Sharing Kids' Photos Online: A Family’s Guide

1. Consent First, Always

Your privacy — and your child’s — is something I take seriously.

That’s why every family I work with has the chance to opt out of having their child’s face shared online, right in the contract. Whether you're comfortable with full sharing, prefer partial anonymity, or want to keep everything private, your wishes are respected without question.

This step isn’t just paperwork — it’s there to give you control, create clarity, and ensure we’re on the same page before the camera ever comes out.

2. What Counts as “Posting”

Whenever I talk about sharing images, here’s what I mean:

  • Featuring on my blog

  • Posting on Instagram or Facebook

  • Contest submissions or publications

You’ll never find your child’s face used for paid advertising, nor will I tag your family unless you’ve asked for it.

3. Creative Alternatives: Faceless Photos

If you prefer not to show your child’s face, that’s totally valid—and it doesn’t mean sacrificing beautiful storytelling images. In fact, some of the most compelling moments come from working creatively around it. Think:

  • Silhouettes in window light

  • Action shots from behind or off to the side

  • A tiny hand gripping a parent’s finger

  • Soft-focus on hair, hands, or body in motion

  • Eyes closed in a natural moment

This approach isn’t new — award-winning documentary family photographer Sabine Doppelhofer built her entire global portfolio on faceless images, proving that you can create deeply moving, artful stories without ever revealing faces. Check out her incredible work on Instagram  here.

Why it Matters Now

Social media and AI are evolving fast — and so is kids’ privacy. Deciding early whether to share your child’s face isn’t just about photos; it’s about digital agency and future autonomy. My job is to create beautiful images and respect your right to choose how they’re shared.

What to Consider Before Your Session

  • How do you feel about using your child’s face on social or blog features?

  • Would you prefer a mix of safe, private images and faceless storytelling shots?

  • Are there specific platform(s) (like contests vs. Instagram) you’re okay with or worried about?

We’ll talk through all your preferences before your session and make a plan that fits.

Final Thought

No matter what you decide, your photo collection will be yours — beautiful, personal, and respectful. If you ever want to revisit your choices after seeing previews, I’m here to adjust and honor your comfort.

🔗 Learn More from Sabine

Want to explore Sabine’s philosophy and portfolio? Check out her article on the “6 Reasons for Faceless Photos” — a thoughtful dive into the creative and ethical power of choice:
👉 6 Gründe für FACELESS Fotos sabi-doppelhofer.camerafamily.com+1sabi-doppelhofer.camerafamily.com+1

Let’s Chat

Have questions or ideas about privacy, creative shooting, or anything in between? Just reach out — I’m here to listen, share, and support your family’s storytelling journey.

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What Is Documentary Family Photography?