Photographing toddlers is an absolute joy, but any parent knows that one- to three-year-olds are the ultimate wildcards! They are full of energy, wonderfully curious, and absolutely will not do something just because you asked them to. If you are feeling nervous about how your toddler will behave during a family photoshoot, take a deep breath. The secret to beautiful toddler photography isn’t getting them to sit perfectly still—it is embracing their energy and letting them be exactly who they are.
Choose the Right Time of Day
Timing is everything when it comes to toddlers. A child who is tired or hungry has a much harder job than the photographer! When booking your session, carefully consider your child’s daily routine.
Avoid scheduling the photoshoot during an obvious nap time or immediately before a meal when they are likely to be cranky. Often, the best times for toddler sessions are first thing in the morning when they are fresh and well-rested, or directly after their post-lunch nap. We always aim to schedule the shoot when your little one is at their absolute best.
Embrace Movement and Play
If you tell a toddler to stand on a specific spot, look at a stranger’s camera, and smile on command, the chances of success are incredibly slim. Instead of forcing stiff poses, we lean heavily into movement and play.
Walking together, swinging them by their hands, cuddling on a blanket, tickle fights, and simple games like peek-a-boo work wonders. By focusing on interacting with your child rather than looking at the camera, we capture genuine, joyful expressions. Expect movement, and keep your expectations flexible. The goal is not constant eye contact in every frame; it is capturing the authentic bond you share.
What to Bring to Keep Them Happy
You don’t need to bring a massive bag of props or toys to keep a toddler entertained—in fact, too many toys can be distracting! However, a few carefully chosen essentials can save the day.
Always bring water and a few small, dry snacks. Avoid anything messy, sticky, or colourful that could stain their lips or clothing (like chocolate or bright fruit snacks). Rice cakes, crackers, or raisins are perfect. It is also a great idea to bring along one familiar comfort item, like a favourite small teddy or a blanket, which can provide a sense of security in a new environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my toddler refuses to participate?
This is incredibly common, so please don’t stress! If they need a break, we take a break. We will never force the issue. Often, we will take a step back and let you comfort them, or we will switch up the activity entirely. Sometimes the best photos happen when a child is just quietly observing the world from their parent’s arms.
Should I practice saying “cheese” with them before the shoot?
Actually, we prefer that you don’t! Asking children to say “cheese” often results in forced, unnatural grimaces. We prefer to capture their genuine smiles by making them laugh naturally through games, silly noises, and interacting with you.
Is a studio or outdoor location better for toddlers?
Both can work beautifully, but they offer different experiences. Outdoor locations are often fantastic for busy toddlers because they have endless space to run, explore, and burn off energy. Studios offer a contained, controlled environment with fewer distractions, which works wonderfully for younger toddlers who might wander off!
