3 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR TODDLER FOR YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION

As the mother of a two-year-old, I know that it can be challenging to get family pictures taken. Being in front of the camera is awkward and stressful, especially if you haven't prepared your toddler. You have to find the perfect coordinating outfits, choose a photographer, pick a location, and after all of that is finished, you have the task of getting your family prepared for pictures.

Here are a few simple tips to help you have a stress-free and even FUN time getting pictures taken as a family.

Step 1. Food, food and more FOOD!

I always like to remind my clients that a full child is a happy child. If possible, eat BEFORE coming to your photoshoot and bring snacks...lots of snacks! Getting pictures taken and meeting a new person can take a lot out of your kids, and having some of their favorite snacks to refuel can make a massive difference in the session's outcome.

Step 2. Let kids be kids.

I will always love capturing those perfectly posed photos, but let's face it, toddlers can be very unpredictable. They can go from 0-100 in a few minutes. That's exactly why I love just letting kids be kids. If you go into your shoot with an open mind and give your photographer the chance to play with your child and give them the breaks they need, I guarantee that your photos and experience will be so much better!

Step 3. Rewards.

Whether it's a toy, a treat, or just a fun activity, it is always a good idea to have something exciting for your toddler to look forward to for doing such a great job taking pictures. As the photographer, I like to reward those perfectly posed photos with fun interactive photos. Letting the toddlers tickle their parents or play tag around them can create some interactive and memorable pictures while also getting some of your child's energy out. Another fun thing to break up images is bringing small treats. After they finish each pose, reward them with a tic tac, gummy, cracker (you get the idea). It seems like a small incentive, but it helps us all have a great time with minimal meltdowns.

Hopefully these tips will help prepare you and your toddlers for a great family session! :)