The little one above might be all smiles, but as any parent would know, it takes a lot to get a child to sit still, pose, behave and follow instructions.
Family photoshoots are a pleasant way to capture nostalgic moments for a keepsake. To nail those perfect pictures, however, parents must seek a photographer with the experience and enthusiasm for working with children.
My Secret to Working with Parents & Young Children
As a mother of two (a 4-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl) who adores children, I am always excited to work with them for a family photoshoot. I have had the privilege of working with thousands of parents and their children.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve uncovered the secret to managing toddlers and nailing those perfect shots. The trick is neither in disciplining nor instructing. Instead, I capture stunning shots of the toddlers laughing and having fun by playing with them (eg. peek-a-boo, bubbles or rocking horse) or interacting with their parents.
This little one below was so fascinated by the rocking horse!
Managing Stranger Anxiety
One obstacle I have encountered when working with new clients is stranger anxiety. It’s normal for a child to feel anxious in a foreign environment with people they don’t recognise. That’s why I give them the liberty to explore my studio at their own pace to familiarise themselves with it.
Otherwise, I recommend having the photoshoot at the rooftop of the studio where they can run around or play with bubbles in the free and large outdoor space. Here’s what goes on behind some of my rooftop shots:
One key piece of advice I give all parents with young children is for them to bring along their child’s favourite plushie or a blankie. Familiar household items are like security blankets for young children, and they feel more comfortable being around objects they recognise.
More importantly, I always encourage parents to be in the picture with their children first so that they feel more comfortable being in front of the camera lens (see image below).
5 Tips for a Spectacular Family Photoshoot
1. Find a Timing Which Suits Your Little One
If your toddler already has a routine with play, naptime and family time, make sure you book your photoshoot during a time that they feel the most energetic. Avoid scheduling a photoshoot during naptime, after school or just before lunch where they might be unfocused, tired and cranky.
2. Minimise Outfit Changes
Toddlers tend to squirm during any changing process. Thus, try to avoid changing your child’s outfit too many times. Aim for a maximum of 3 outfit changes with comfortable and loose clothing like a T-shirt (see below) instead of formal attire which might be constricting.
3. Feed Your Toddler Before the Photoshoot
A hungry toddler is an ANGRY one. Make sure your little ones are well-fed before the photoshoot. You might want to bring along some snacks and light refreshments to keep them happy and satisfied during the shoot or reward them after the photoshoot is complete.
4. Brief them the Day Before
Most toddlers would feel uncomfortable in foreign settings but you could ease their anxieties by letting them take a look at pictures of our studio space and outlining how the events of the photoshoot will play out. Briefing them ahead of the shoot gives them some insight into what they can expect the following day.
5. Be Patient
Put simply, toddlers are toddlers. It’s normal for them to run around and play. Exercise patience and try not to feel too embarrassed or frustrated if your kids are not behaving or following your instructions. Instead, go with the flow and let them have fun!
Capture the Best Moments of Parenting
“The Days Are Long, But The Years Are Short.”- Bodhi Paw.
There’s no better quote that describes parenting better than this one by Bodhi Paw. Time flies when you raise kids and it’s important to capture those golden moments while you still can.
Get in touch to snap those golden moments of your children at Oh Dear Studio today!
