Preparing Families for a Photography Session

Preparing a family for a photography session can be a fun and memorable experience for both parents and children. Here are ten tips to help parents get their little ones ready for a successful and enjoyable photo shoot:

1. Choose the Right Time: Schedule the photography session during a time when your toddler is typically well-rested and in a good mood. Avoid times when they are hungry or tired.

2. Familiarize Them with the idea of a big camera: Introduce your child to the idea of a photographer using a big camera. They might be used to seeing mom and dad using a phone to take pictures, but might be a little startled to see someone looking at them with a big lens which seems unfamiliar to them.

3. Practice Smiles: You never know how a toddler is going to smile until you ask for a smile. Sometimes these smiles are not the true genuine smile you are actually hoping for, best to practice at home a few times!

4. Practice Listening: Play games with your toddler with them following small basic instructions, like the game Simon Says. Try 'hug your sister' and include 'smile!' Make sure your toddler understands the photographer is going to be giving instructions and that it would be so nice if they were able to listen and follow her instructions.

5. Dress Comfortably: Select clothing that your toddler feels comfortable in, as fussy or uncomfortable outfits can lead to a grumpy subject.

6. Favorite Toys or Props: Keep items like their comfort items or toys at home if you do not want them in the photos. If you try to take away a favourite toy or comfort item when you arrive at the session, your toddler will not be happy, and most likely refused to co-operate.

7. Snacks and Drinks: Avoid bringing snacks and drinks along to a session to prevent kids from seeing these items and getting distracted. Make sure your children do have full bellies at the session. If you think it is necessary, bribes in the form of food may be used. We can bring these out if we need it. Think along the lines of white mini marshmallows, gummies or a few cheerios. Avoid messy or staining foods.

During

1. Be Patient and Flexible: Be prepared for the photo session to not go as planned, as toddlers can be quite unpredictable. This isn't the time to be angry or stern with your kids to pose and smile, it just won't work.

2. Follow their lead: If toddlers are having a moment, we just have to go with the flow. We can let them explore and capture those moments with mom and dad around supporting them.

3. Be Silly and Playful: During the session we will sing songs and play games and tickle each other to get the genuine smiles.

4. Bring a Backup Outfit: Toddlers are notorious for getting messy, so it's a good idea to have a spare outfit on hand in case of spills or accidents.

5. Relax and Have Fun: Children are very perceptive and can pick up on their parents' emotions. Stay calm and enjoy the experience, and your toddler is more likely to have a good time as well.

Remember, the key to a successful toddler photography session is to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. A patient and positive approach will help capture those precious moments and create lasting memories.

After

1. You did it!: You are likely going to be overwhelmed with the whirlwind that just happened, but acknowledge your toddler did a great job.

2. Remain positive: Keeping the experience positive will help your toddler associate happy feelings with the idea of a photo session. So even if it didn't go so great at this session, the next one might be much better.

3. Relax: Now wait for those beautiful memories to arrive.