HOW TO MAKE YOR TODDLER GO SMOOTHLY

I have so many inquiries from moms, who are concerned that their toddlers will not behaving during their session, so they hesitate on booking, for these reason. I think that I don’t like the word behave because the way I work, it’s not based on toddlers behaving during sessions, but more of letting the toddlers do what they are meant to do and that’s explore and be themselves. Toddler Photography can be stressful but here's what I do to make it go as smooth as possible.

First, Establish a clear line of communication with my client

Establishing a clear line of communication with my client to make the experience as comfortable as possible is super important. From the beginning the first email inquiry I received from my client if they expressed any type of concern regarding the toddlers behavior or the ability of them cooperating during session. I always make sure to communicate with mom that I understand her concerns and that I have a few tips that can help ease her mind going into session. Also make it clear to them that they’re free to reach out to me at any point till session date with any questions or concerns letting them know that they are not a bother to you because their concerns are important. I also like to send them guides before their session on what to wear and other helpful tips so they know that I am also looking forward to working with them. I like to also ask about their previous experience in photo sessions. That way I’m able to get an idea of how to approach their toddler in a way that fits their needs the best. If it’s the first time taking photos with their toddler, I like to give them an extra five or 10 minutes of session just to ease her mind.

Second, Help my client prepare as much as possible if they need

Helping my client prepare as much as possible if they need before session date helps them feel less stressed. I send out free guilds on what to wear or anything of that sort. I have them covered with any information they request from me. Often times I even suggest fun strategies to help prepare the little one at home such as a pretend photo shoot with mom and dad and the family at home. As well as what not to do when it comes to the day of the session. I find that clients who are the most stressed about their toddler cooperating during session are the ones who are the least prepared and have no idea what to expect from the session. I have tons of behind-the-scenes videos on some of my toddler sessions, either with family or alone to give some families perspective on what it looks like as well. Being prepared is definitely the most important thing for a stress-free photo session of any kind in general specially when it comes to toddlers.

Third, I set realistic expectation.

Having a set of realistic expectation is key. Your toddler will do toddler things and that's ok I'm  not stressing about them running around we'll still get some beautiful shots I promise. Before booking I highly recommend you look into your photographer style. it is important to know how your photographer works and the type of work that they do because this will play a huge role in how they approach photographing your toddler. For example, I do not expect my toddlers to stay still the entire session looking at the camera smiling. Since I’m a lifestyle photographer, yes I do like some shots where they look at the camera, but I actually prefer toddlers in their element. Whatever that looks like each toddler is completely different. If you’re toddler is a runner, expect a lot of shots of them running around from all kinds of angles and perspectives. If your toddler loves music or videos, expect me to pull my phone out and play for them their favorite musics, or shows as a jump around and get them to be their happy selves. It is important that as parents you do not expect that the photo shoot will be a dream as your child fully cooperating and not running around doing toddler things. Know what to expect from the beginning. If you don’t asked the photographer, they should give you a idea of what to expect and set your standards a little lower just in case this will allow you to be less stressed leading up to it.

I hope this helped you have an idea on everything. It takes to have a smooth toddler session. It’s really not that hard and doesn’t have to be complicated at all as long as you’re working with a professional that knows what they’re doing and can meet all of your needs it really shouldn’t be stressful at all. The memories attached to photos are important so if you’re having a stressful photo shoot the odds are you might not even want to look at those photos and remember the time you took them, so selecting the right photographer for you as important and making sure they’re knowledgeable and understanding, and most importantly they mean the needs you’re looking for.