Juggling a toddler during family photos can be a challenge. Here’s how you can make the experience smoother for both you and your toddler.

Family photos are about capturing the real, joyful, and love-filled moments between you and your little ones. But let’s be real — toddlers can be unpredictable! The good news? With a little preparation and the right mindset, your session can be a fun, stress free family photo experience that results in some beautiful, meaningful images.

Here are my top tips for ensuring a smooth family photo session with your toddler:

1. Prior preparation is key

A happy toddler makes for the best photos, and a little planning can go a long way in making sure your child feels comfortable and content.

Eat beforehand! Full bellies = happy kiddos. Bringing a snack along is always a great idea, just in case.

Hype up the session. Talk to your child about what’s going to happen, what they’ll wear, and who I am. Make it sound like an exciting adventure rather than something to be nervous about. Your enthusiasm will rub off on them!

Prioritize naps. If your toddler still naps, try to work around their schedule. A well-rested child is far more likely to be happy and engaged.

Bring a favorite small toy. Something they love can be a source of comfort. Bonus: wooden toys tend to blend in beautifully in photos rather than being distracting.

Arrive early if the session is at a new location. Giving your child time to explore and get comfortable with their surroundings helps ease any initial shyness or overwhelm.

2. Readjust your expectations

Let’s set the record straight — your child does not need to be perfectly still and smiling for every photo. In fact, the best images come when they’re just being themselves.

Embrace movement and play. If you’re hiring me, you aren’t expecting stiff, posed portraits. Let go of the need for everyone to be looking at the camera and smiling in unison. Some of the most magical moments happen when kids are simply playing, snuggling, or exploring.

Your energy sets the tone. Kids pick up on your emotions. If you’re stressed or trying too hard to “make” them behave, they’ll feel it. Instead, focus on being present, playful, and relaxed — your joy and affection will shine through in the photos.

Trust the process. I’ve been photographing families for over 10 years, and I know that kids need time to warm up. The first 20 minutes are often just about getting comfortable. I don’t expect perfect behavior, toddlers have big emotions like us!

3. Give them space

One of the biggest advantages of my sessions is that we aren’t rushing against the clock.

If they need a break, we take one. There’s no pressure to capture everything in a short time frame.

Let them be themselves. Some kids need time to observe before they feel comfortable, while others jump right in. No matter what, I’ll follow their lead.

Consider an in-home session. If you have a toddler who thrives in familiar spaces, an in-home session might be the perfect way to capture them at their happiest. I have another post about the misconceptions of in-home sessions on my page you may want to check out!

4. Dress them comfortably

Choose outfits that feel good to wear. If your child is fidgeting with itchy fabric or stiff clothing, it will show in the photos. Soft, breathable outfits work best.

Shoes matter too! For in-home sessions, everyone can be barefoot. For outdoor sessions, barefoot is also an option — especially for little ones who love to feel the grass under their feet.

5. Have something to look forward to

If your toddler isn’t thrilled about getting their picture taken, a little post-session excitement can help.

Plan a fun activity afterward. A trip to their favorite park or a cozy movie night can give them something to anticipate. Not a bribe — just a fun family day. You don’t have to frame it as a reward, just as part of a special day together.

Make the session itself an adventure! Want to make the experience even more memorable? Let’s combine your photo session with a family activity — whether it’s making pizza together in your kitchen, riding bikes, or enjoying an ice cream outing. Imagine the natural, joy-filled moments we could capture!

The key to a great photo session with toddlers is simple: prepare well, relax, and embrace the beautiful chaos of family life. When you let go of expectations and focus on enjoying the moment, we’ll create images that truly reflect your family’s love and connection.