Family photos are irreplaceable and invaluable heirlooms that you and your family will treasure forever, especially as your kids grow up and look back on their childhoods. As much as I love seeing the joy that family portraits bring, I also understand that a lot of parents worry about how their toddler will be during a photo session and whether they’ll actually be able to capture what a sweet and joyful child their toddler is…or whether they’ll have a classic toddler tantrum and make it a stressful experience. In my Mechanicsburg PA family photography studio, I can assure you that there are ways to have a fantastic photo session with a toddler! Try these top tips.
Put Your Expertise to Use
You know your toddler - you know what puts them in a good mood and what tends to make them cranky. Now is the time to put that knowledge to good use! Plan the day of the photo shoot around making sure your little one is at their best when it’s time for the session: fed, rested, and ready to party!
Have Fun with Your Mechanicsburg PA Family Photography
You are your little one’s entire world, and they take so many cues from you - including cues on what activities are fun. If you want them to enjoy a photo session, talk about it the same way you’d tell them with excitement that they get to go to the zoo or see their friend or visit their grandparents. Make sure your spouse or partner does the same, because when your toddler sees that everyone else is happy and having fun, they will too!
Be Strategic with Your Incentives
It’s great to have some tricks up your sleeve to incentivize your toddler to be on their best behavior. Some of these incentives can become more harmful than helpful, though - specifically, bringing your child’s favorite toys to cheer them up. If you hand your toddler that teddy bear that goes everywhere with them, it might put a smile on their face, but when you try to take it away for more photos, they could have a meltdown. The rule of thumb is not to bring any items for your toddler that you don’t want to be in the photos.
Choose a Photographer Who Knows Toddlers for Your Mechanicsburg PA Family Photography
As a photographer who has worked with toddlers for many years, I can tell you that it’s a skill that takes time and experience to develop. I have plenty of practice turning tears into smiles and making toddlers feel comfortable during photo shoots, and it makes all the difference! Make sure you book your family session with a photographer who has this expertise.
If you want a beautiful and memorable family photo shoot with your sweet family, I’ll be honored to capture this moment in your family’s story. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography and let’s start planning your session!
