Hey Mama, I hear ya, you want to document your family’s growth in a beautiful way that you can share with the world… but you’re worried about the chaotic stage you’re in as a family. THE TODDLER STAGE. I’m about to hit ya with some easy and implementable family photography tips to help you get the most out of your session experience!
Anyways, back to the stage, the toddler stage. I’m a current resident myself – with a 1.5 and 4.5 year old little girls. I understand the special flavor of anxiety where you’re not certain if going out to dinner is an option because they’re cranky that day, or you’re concerned they might spontaneously make a scene right as you sit down.
Here’s the deal – your toddler’s behavior, good and bad, is welcome here! In fact, its encouraged! they’re these incredible little humans that are just trying to make sense of a big world, cant hardly fault them for that, right? Rest assured that no matter what shape they show up in, I promise we’ll get some great shots, I promise they will warm up to the camera, I promise it won’t get stressful! With that being said, here’s a few tips to give you some confidence & help us get off to the right start!
1. Prep your kiddos as much as possible before your family photography session
This one is my number one on my list of family photography tips for a good reason; its truly the most effective! No matter how young your kiddos are they can benefit from this process. I would suggest starting a day or two before your session. Explain to your littles what the session will look like, where its going to be, who will be there, and what they will be doing. Toddlers don’t like surprises that are out of their routine! Prepping them helps them feel safer and more secure.
2. Plan comfortable outfits for your session
I know some of those elaborate dresses are totes adorable, but its much more important that your little one feels comfortable! opt for cute outfits that are cotton or softer fabric. Try to stick with shoes they have worn before to avoid any ouchies. I promise it will be worth the genuine smiles to pass on the elaborate outfits!
3. structure your day with your family photography session in mind
I know this one is hard, but try not to pack anything extra into your session day! Having a nice calm day and prioritizing rest will pay dividends when its time for your session. Toddlers get overwhelmed easily, if they spend a whole day leading up to their session running errands or playing with friends, they may be tuckered out! also, if you can adjust nap time a little bit to later in the day, that helps too!
4. hype them up about your family photography session
I cannot stress this one enough, when you’re stressed or speaking negatively about an experience, even the youngest kiddos pick up on it! Try to talk about your session like its just a fun evening spent together as a family, because it really will be. bonus points for planning a special dessert together on the way home!
Head over to my blog home page for alllll the tips and tricks to get the most bang for your buck out of your family photography session!
