Best Kept Secrets to Keep Your Toddler Happy During Family Photos- Toronto Family Photographer

As a family photographer in the GTA, Ontario Canada, I understand that trying to get a toddler to cooperate during a photoshoot can be a daunting task. But with the right preparation and strategies, you can make the experience fun and enjoyable for both you and your little one. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of my best-kept secrets to keeping your toddler happy during family photos.

Before the session

When preparing for your family photo session, it’s important to keep in mind a few key things that can help make the experience run smoothly. First, try to keep your child(ren)’s schedule as normal as possible, especially if they are of napping age. This will help ensure that they are well-rested and ready for the session.

Next, make sure your child(ren) are well-fed before arriving at the studio. A hungry child can easily become upset, so feeding them right before the session is a good idea. This applies to babies as well – if you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, make sure to do so right before coming to the studio.

To make the session go as smoothly as possible, it’s also helpful to have a few key items on hand.

Snacks that won’t turn their mouths different colors (such as puffs, mini marshmallows, or cheerios) are a great option. Additionally, small stickers (in light colors) can be used to encourage your child to hold or touch a sibling or belly bump. Neutral color shoes can also come in handy in case your child doesn’t want to go barefoot, and having a few favorite toys can help keep your child entertained when they’re not in the photos. Finally, consider bringing pajamas for your child to change into at the end of the session, especially if it’s an evening session – this can help them fall asleep more easily on the car ride home.

During the session

During the photo session, it’s important to keep in mind that toddlers have a short attention span. As a professional photographer, I work quickly to capture those precious moments that families want in their gallery. However, you can also play a crucial role in helping to make the session a success.

One of the most important things you can do is to stay positive and excited, no matter what is happening with your children. Even if they are crying or throwing a tantrum, it’s important to keep smiling and stay camera-ready. These moments can pass quickly, and we want to be ready to capture the perfect shot when it presents itself.

Another important tip is to be flexible and go with the flow of the session. Toddlers are sensitive to our energy, and if they sense that we are frustrated or stressed, they may become more upset. Instead, it’s essential to roll with whatever happens and try to find the small moments of connection between you and your child.

During the session, look for ways to be affectionate with your child, such as holding hands, kissing foreheads, snuggling up close, giving eskimo kisses, dancing around, or touching noses. These seemingly small moments can help to soothe and reassure your child, and they also photograph beautifully.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that this is the season of your lives right now, and it’s okay if things seem a bit chaotic during the session. With my guidance, you’ll end up with a beautiful gallery of images that truly capture your family’s love and connection.

Make it a Game

One of the best ways to keep your toddler engaged and excited during a photoshoot is to make it a game. For example, you can hide behind a tree and then pop out to surprise them or make silly faces to get them to laugh. Another fun idea is to have them search for a hidden object in the area, like a treasure hunt. This not only keeps them entertained but also captures natural, candid moments.

Bring Their Favorite Things

Bringing your toddler’s favorite toy or stuffed animal can also help to keep them happy during a photoshoot. Not only will they have something familiar and comforting with them, but it can also be incorporated into the photos for a personal touch. This can also be a good opportunity to capture your child’s personality and interests.

Timing is Key

One of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a family photoshoot with a toddler is timing. Make sure to schedule the photoshoot during your child’s best time of day, whether that’s early morning or late afternoon. Avoid scheduling the photoshoot during nap time or when your child is usually cranky. Also, make sure to give yourself enough time for the photoshoot so that your child doesn’t feel rushed or pressured.

Have Patience and Flexibility

It’s important to remember that toddlers are unpredictable and things may not always go as planned. Having patience and flexibility during the photoshoot is key to keeping your toddler happy. It’s also important to be open to spontaneous moments and not to force poses or expressions that your child is not comfortable with.

Hire a Professional Family Photographer

Lastly, one of the best ways to ensure that your family photoshoot with your toddler goes smoothly is to hire a professional family photographer. Not only do they have the skills and experience to capture stunning photos, but they also have a wealth of knowledge and strategies for working with young children. They also have the patience and understanding that is needed when working with toddlers during a photoshoot.

In conclusion, with a little bit of preparation and the right strategies, you can make the experience of a family photoshoot with your toddler a fun and enjoyable one. Remember to make it a game, bring their favorite things, have patience and flexibility and hire a professional family photographer. And to make it even more special, you can choose one of the beautiful locations in Toronto or GTA for your family photoshoot.

So don’t wait any longer and make your family memories special by capturing them in the most beautiful way. Contact us today and schedule your family photoshoot. We’ll make sure that you and your toddler will have a great experience and end up with beautiful and unforgettable family photos.