Honestly, kids are among my favorite subjects to photograph! So don't stress.
You may feel a bit uncertain or uneasy wondering how they will behave, whether it's a family session or a session just for them. I've compiled some helpful tips to ease your mind!
Prior to each of my sessions, you will receive a personalized questionnaire to help me best understand the dynamics of your family. I will ask specific questions to help me understand each child's personality and interests. If you have a different photographer, hopefully they do the same. If not, it is important to provide this information to your own photographer.
Not too much you can do to prepare your sweet little babe at these ages besides making sure they have a full tummy. Another thing is to be mindful of the time you schedule your session. Whether you want the child asleep for the session or awake will need to dictate when you book. If you are getting ready for a newborn session, I will have a separate post about the ins and outs of that coming soon.
Toddlers are so much fun! Sometimes they can get a bad wrap, but I for one think they're so endearing. They're starting to figure out who they are in the world and they have such funny personalities. Here are some things you can do:
- Schedule wisely. Be mindful of any nap times and just like the babies, make sure they've had a good meal or snack beforehand.
- We will go at the child's pace. They're pretty much in charge here.
- Don't think of this as a photoshoot, think of this as them getting to play and have a good time. If you're talking with them beforehand, be mindful of how you talk about it. Be weary of telling them to "be on their best behavior" or that you'll offer them goodies after the shoot. Instead, hype them up by telling them how much fun they are going to have!
- Clothing and shoes should be comfortable for them.
- Bring some wet wipes for that last minute boogie wipe.
- For longer shoots, you may want to bring a mess-free snack and drink as well.
From my experience, this age group of girls have a blast with photoshoots! Particularly solo photoshoots. I've had a mixed bag when it comes to the boys, but they always end up having just as much fun.
- Again, be mindful of how you speak about the session. Hype up the fun and resist mentioning those high expectations.
- Hanger is real, feed those tummies.
- Make sure they are in clothing that they are comfortable in. This goes for shoes if applicable too.
- You may want to help the child groom or style their hair.
- You may also want to bring some wet wipes in case you need to do a last minute face cleanse prior to your shoot.
- Longer shoots, you may consider bringing a mess-free snack and drink.
This group is the most varied when it comes to excitement over having a photoshoot. Girls, again, typically look forward to this more than the guys do, but you'd be surprised what ends up happening when they get on set.
- Food! That's right, I'm sure you've noticed a theme if you've scanned each section. Hanger shows up in all ages.
- Let them choose their outfits & styling ahead of time. Have them try everything on and make sure everything fits and looks how they want.
- Let them know this is just going to be a fun time!
- Get them involved in suggesting some poses they would like to try.
I have a lot of sessions for this group due to senior portraits. However, I'm no stranger to family sessions with older children involved.
- If it were me, I'd still make sure they were fed.
- Allow them to choose their outfit and styling ahead of time and try everything on prior.
- You can also get this age group involve to show you some inspo pictures or poses.
- If this is for senior portraits, I will be making a separate post about this soon.
As a mom myself, I understand the concerns. Just know, I'm here to help you guys have fun and just capture the spirit of your family in whatever season you're in!