Tips for Family Photos with a Toddler

July 23, 2021

So you have a toddler, and the thought of a family photo session with your unpredictable little human is already causing you stress. Well, my friend, I want to encourage you to still get those photos taken. Yes, your toddler is unpredictable, but this season of life is too precious to not capture it. And, I want to share are some tips for your family photos to make them go (a little bit ) more smoothly.

The Hencey family got photos taken in celebration of their little guy turning ONE! Take heart, you can get adorable family photos just like they did!

Understand that your toddler may have a meltdown, AND THAT IS OKAY. Often toddlers don’t nap on the day of the session. Or they don’t enjoy having a camera pointed at them. Maybe they are hungry. And sometimes they just start crying with no reason at all. I know this might scare you, but I want to comfort you by saying, I get it. When this happens, we will take a break. We will slow down. Your kid is the focus of this session, and I will follow their lead.
BRIBERY IS OKAY (in this situation). I know you don’t want your kids getting used to bribes, but if you do it only once a year to get the photos you want, I think it is worth it. So bring candy, promise ice cream, or a new toy. This will give them motivation when things get iffy.
Bring fun props! I love to keep the photo session moving a a fast pace because it keeps your kids attention. It’s more fun when there is lots of movement and change. When you bring props, it helps me do something different! The Hencey family brought these adorable crates that were so fun and unique!

These three tips for family photos are easy ways to create a super fun session and memory with your family!