Your finger hovers over the submit button of that inquiry form, but something makes you pause.  You love your kids.  And you want them to have those beautiful, scroll-stopping photos you see from your friends.  You want them for yourself too!

But you’re worried

What if your kids won’t cooperate for photos?

If that thought has crossed your mind, you are not alone! Every parent has worried about this.

However, t’s important to remember that no one expects perfection – especially not me!

I have truly seen it all, from toddler tantrums to snack meltdowns, to kids who won’t even look in my direction, and even the occasional full-body flop in the grass!

None of it scares me. Because the goal of your session isn’t perfection. Its connection.

And here is the best part. It’s not about connection with me, it’s about the connection between you and your kids – and that is already there! You already have what matters most!

Let Go of “Perfect”

Kids are not always going to smile on demand.  They are not always going to follow directions and they are certainly not going to cooperate for a full 60 minutes straight of photos!  And that is okay!  That is not always age-appropriate for your kiddos.

Toddlers can realistically focus for 5-19. minutes at a time before needing a reset. Young kids need movement, play, and interaction.

But honestly, movement in your photos is always going to be better than stiff posing. Having fun and allowing for those squirmy, giggly, fun moments to happen will result in photos that really feel like your family!

Preparing for your Session

There are a few simple things you can do ahead of time to set everyone up for success.

• Talk about the session beforehand in a positive, relaxed way. Keep it light and fun
• Kids are incredibly intuitive. They pick up on your tone, your stress level, and your expectations. If you are anxious about how it is going to go, they will pick up on that.

(Pro tip: Kids really seem to pick up on dad’s energy for photos. I am not sure why, but it’s something I have seen time and time again.  Even if photos aren’t his favorite activity, staying positive in front of the kids makes a huge difference!)

• Avoid threats like “You better smile or no ice cream”. That pressure almost always backfires (and you know you are doing out for ice cream anyway – and so do they!). Instead, focus on the reward afterward “When we are done, we’re going out for pizza!). This shifts the tone from pressure to celebration!
• You know what motivates your kids best! Stick with that!

Choose the Right Time

Timing matters more than you think!

You will want to consider what your entire day looks like when booking your session.  If we are planning an evening outdoor session (which is post common for that soft, glowy light) try to avoid overstimulating activities beforehand.

It’s probably not the best day for doctor’s appointments. Especially not the kind that involve shots.

It’s helpful to avoid nap times and meal times!  Hangry kids are not always happy to participate in photos!

If your kiddos are really sensitive to witching hour, then we might want to throw the “golden hour” rule out the window and plan for a different time of day for your session.  This might mean shifting the start time 30-60 minutes earlier, choosing a studio session, or planning for a season when the sun sets earlier (ie. fall).

There is always a solution! We just tailor it to your family!

Dress for Comfort

If there is one thing that can derail a session quickly, it is uncomfortable clothing! Make sure the clothes are well-fitting and feel good.  Do your best to avoid itchy fabrics and anything that needs constant adjusting. Even if you have your heart set on the adorable short-sleeved shirt, please have a backup sweater in those transition months. Cold kids don’t look happy. And they don’t feel happy either.

If your kids aren’t comfortable, you will notice it in the photo!

Be Prepared for Breaks

Both you and your kids will often need breaks during your session – and that is totally fine!

Snacks are okay.

Snuggles are okay.

Even some tears are okay!

I promise, I have seen it all, and I have never had a session ruined by a toddler being a toddler.

Sometimes a reset looks like sitting in the grass for a quick cuddle (which, by the way, often makes for the sweetest images), and sometimes it is walking to a new spot and giving them a minute to breathe.

And almost every time, we are right back in it after that little pause.

How are Meaningful Images Created

Those scroll-stopping images you are aching for – they don’t always happen during a perfectly orchestrated pose. They happen during the in-between.

The moments when you are snuggling, walking hand in hand, and whispering secrets to one another. I will encourage you through your whole session to really enjoy being with each other and staying in the moment, even if it isn’t your “turn” in front of the camera. Sometimes those playful, in-between moments are actually the ones that will stop you in your tracks!

What if it all falls apart?

This is the question you really want to know, right? What if they cry the whole time? What if they refused to participate? What if it is truly a disaster?

I have photographed hundreds of toddlers and young children. I have worked through the shy phase, I’ve waited out tantrums, and I have photographed the “won’t look at the camera” stage more times than I can count. And do you know what happens almost every time? We still create beautiful images.

I don’t need perfect behavior to capture your family. Just show up with love and a little patience. The rest? We will handle together!

If you would like to learn more about booking your own family session, please contact me to get in touch! I’d love to share more about how I can help you create beautiful family memories that really feel like you!

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