Do you associate family photoshoots with a stressful experience? I want to pop in and share how you can have a fun, stress-free photoshoot with your entire family. Gone are the days of huffing and puffing during your session because your toddler won’t look directly at the camera. Tune in below for my best tips on how to prepare your toddler for their session.
Talk to your family before the session
Inviting this stranger with a big black camera to photograph your family and your toddler has no idea who this person is- yeah I think I would be upset too if I were a toddler! Talk to your kiddos in the days leading up to your family session. Explain that you are going to meet a new friend and that friend is going to use a camera to take pictures. Explain to them that they will be there with you and you get to play games, have cuddles, and explore a new fun place. When they arrive at the location and the photographer is there, it won’t be this big mystery to them and they will know what to expect, which will make them feel more at ease!
Come with an open-mind
It really is my job to document your family loving on each other and having fun! All you have to do is show up and be prepared to go with the flow! A good tip is to follow your toddlers lead! If they want to pick flowers, go pick some flowers! They will have a positive experience and will be less likely to get upset mid photo session. I really do love documenting sweet candid moments that happen throughout the photoshoot, so embrace those moments!
The rest is my job
When I arrive, I will spend the first little bit of time introducing myself and warming up your toddler! Nothing like a little game of peek-a-boo to pull a smile out of a toddler. The best part about my family sessions is that I try to make them super fun for everyone involved.
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At the beginning of the session I will tell your family to just get close and play with your toddler/baby- giving them tickles, cuddles, and kisses. Once your kiddos see that the photoshoot is fun and that the photographer lady isn’t as suspicious at they thought, they will be more likely to give smiles.
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We go with the flow! If your kiddos don’t want to sit down on the blanket in one exact spot and look at the camera- that’s perfectly fine! I am a very care-free kinda gal and I like to let the kids take the lead.
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I make a game out of almost everything! I love telling kiddos that I have a secret for them- I tell them what I want them to do, like run up to mommy super fast and give her a huge kiss. They have so much fun doing it because we made it into a game!
Your family photo session does not have to be a stressful experience! With these tips and tricks, you will be set up for success at your next family photo session and will walk away with a fun experience and great memories.
