7 Tips on How to Prepare Your Toddler for Their Mini Session
Even if we don’t get a posed smile, toddlers will show their personality!
The best photos from your session aren’t the posed smiles. They’re the funny expressions and emotions!
I’m a mom of a wild toddler boy, so I understand that capturing the oh-so adorable and precious moments of your little one can be both thrilling and challenging. Toddlers are bundles of energy and capturing their genuine smiles and expressions can sometimes feel like chasing butterflies. However, with a little preparation and planning, your toddler's mini session can be a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Here are some top tips to help your toddler get ready for their special moment in front of the camera:
Once again, candids are usually parent favorites!
Plan Around Nap Time: One of the most crucial factors in ensuring a successful toddler photo session is timing. Try scheduling the session during a time when your baby or toddler is well-rested and refreshed. A nap before the shoot can do wonders in keeping your little one in good spirits and cooperative during the session.
Keep Snacks Handy: Toddlers are notorious for their unpredictable appetites. Having a variety of their favorite snacks on hand can help keep hunger tantrums at bay and provide a quick energy boost if needed during the session. Opt for mess-free snacks to avoid any wardrobe mishaps before or during the shoot. I do not recommend anything sugary as they will revv up ten times are much, and leave the lollipops at home because they will NOT let them go! Photographing a toddler sucking on a lollipop can make a shoot last an exponentially longer time.
Choose Comfortable Outfits: Comfort is key when it comes to dressing your child for their photography session. While it's tempting to dress them in elaborate outfits, keep in mind that your child needs to feel at ease to showcase their genuine personality. Opt for soft fabrics and clothing that allows for easy movement. Avoid clothes with itchy tags or tight elastics that might cause discomfort.
Prepare Your Toddler Mentally: Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability. Talk to your child about the upcoming photo session in a positive and exciting manner. Explain what will happen during the shoot and reassure them that it's going to be a fun experience. Building anticipation and excitement can help ease any apprehension your toddler may have about being in front of the camera.
Bring Comfort Items: Familiar items such as a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal can provide a sense of security and comfort for your toddler during the session. These items can also serve as props to enhance the storytelling aspect of the photos and capture authentic moments of joy and comfort.
Be Patient and Flexible: Toddlers are naturally curious and independent beings. Understand that they may have their own agenda during the session, and that's perfectly okay! Embrace their spontaneity and go with the flow. A patient and flexible approach will help create a relaxed atmosphere, allowing your toddler's true personality to shine through in the photos. Your child is going to get up and run around. It’s okay, and it’s normal! That’s why I keep sessions short.
Have Realistic Expectations: While we strive to capture the perfect shot, it's essential to remember that toddlers can be unpredictable. Embrace the imperfections and cherish the candid moments captured during the session. Sometimes, the most authentic and heartwarming photographs stem from unexpected interactions and expressions.
By following these top tips, you can help prepare your toddler for their mini session and ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for the entire family. Get ready to create cherished memories that you'll treasure for years to come!
