Photos with kids can be stressful... but they really don't have to be.

Let's face it. Kids, especially toddlers can be unpredictable. Sometimes the thought of dressing up and posing can feel overwhelming - if not impossible for families. But I want to give you some tips on how to make the most of your family or newborn photo experience with young children, relax, and dare I say.... even enjoy it??!!!

Bring Supplies


Snacks and water can go a long way with little ones when they need a break. Packing a few non messy snacks can really help young children who need a quick break. Keep them hidden until there is a good time for a break. This ties into one of my biggest suggestions. Avoid bribing smiles with food or other external rewards. This can lead the session into becoming inauthentic and pressured. I find that the best smiles come out of genuine, fun and happy moments that are the key to getting great photos.

Keep Clothing and Shoes Comfortable


Children (just like adults) will be more likely to engage in photos when they feel comfortable. Although photoshoot outfits may not be their first choice in clothing, try to work with them to select outfits that they like and do not feel too restricted in. Comfortable and safe shoes are especially important so that they can move around freely.

Arrive to your Session Early

If your session takes place at a location other then your home, go there early with your children to let them explore. This will allow them to feel comfortable with the place and maybe even discover fun things about it. It may also ease some of their nerves to look around before getting started.

Let the Photographer Take the Lead


Avoid telling kids to smile or look at the camera. Instead, let the photographer direct them. Focus on enjoying the moment and making memories with your little ones. This will lead to you looking much more calm and happy in the photos, which will spread to the children as well. The photographer can advise the children on what they should do next.

Relax and Have Fun

I love capturing real moments. Your photos will come out much more beautiful if everyone is relaxed and acting like themselves. As a photographer my goal is to tell the story of your family. I can do that much easier by just giving a simple prompt and then letting the family be and see what happens. Or by playing a fun or silly game. Doing this will create beautiful moments and images. If you feel yourself getting frustrated with your children during a session, take a breath, smile and let go of all of your expectations.

Mother with two daughters sitting on rocks in warm boho outdoor setting.
Young girl in white boho dress posing with mother and baby sister outdoors.
A mother in a rust polka dot dress walks hand-in-hand with her two daughters in white dresses along a beach.
Two young sisters in white boho dresses play together on a rocky beach in golden sunset light.
Adorable toddler girl in a white lace tulle dress with a pink bow headband stands in golden sunlight.
Two little sisters in white dresses hold hands on a rocky beach, the older girl helping the younger.
A mother in a rust polka dot maxi dress shares a tender kiss with her toddler daughter at the beach.
A joyful young girl in a white lace boho dress with a woven belt dances on a sunny beach.
A laughing young girl in a white lace long-sleeve dress plays on a sandy beach at golden hour.
A mother in a rust dress lovingly kisses her smiling daughter in a white lace boho dress outdoors.
A smiling mother in a rust dress crouches with her two daughters in white dresses on a rocky beach.
A mother in a rust polka dot dress embraces her daughter in a white lace dress near beach boulders.
Mother in rust polka dot dress holds baby girl in white dress outdoors near water at golden hour.
Mother in rust maxi dress holds hands with young daughter in white lace dress by a river.