Many of us get frustrated by our toddlers daily. How did someone so sweet get so strong-willed seemingly overnight? How do I get him to cooperate during a Family photoshoot when he won’t even sit still? For a change, let’s see things from a 2-year-old and perhaps we will understand them more and hence manage them better (and our own expectation)!
Related Must read: The Ultimate Guide to Managing Toddlers at a Family Photoshoot
A toddler’s perspective during a photoshoot:
She said: “Today Mama bought me to a studio. She says we are here for a photoshoot. I do not know what that is and I am scared. When we reach the studio, I see Grandpa and Grandma. I want to hug them but mama said NO. I need to smile at the camera. I do not want to smile at the camera. I want to play with Grandma! This makes me really frustrated.”
Extended family photoshoots are often confusing and distracting for young toddlers. While they will be excited to see so many beloved, familiar faces around, they are also confused as to why they are not allowed to go sit down and play with Grandpa and Grandma.
Suggestion:
– It might be conducive to stagger the timing of your shoot. Eg: First half an hour – just you and your immediate family, and then have the extended family come in for the later part of the shoot.
– Have family members sit quietly by the side without distracting the little one too much.
“The studio is big and pretty! I see so many new playthings! I want to run around and explore! But Papa says no. I have to sit down and smile. This makes me want to wriggle around. I cannot sit still. I need to see what is outside the windows!!”
Being in a new space is exciting. Toddlers are hardwired to explore, and the need is strong! That is how they learn. Plus, who won’t want to look out of that shiny window? Understandably, this can be disruptive during a photoshoot.
Suggestion:
– Arrive 5 to 10 mins prior to your shoot and let your toddler walk around the studio. Familiarise her with the new space so she won’t be overwhelmed (with the need to explore everywhere) during the shoot.
“Grandpa is holding a teddy bear. I want that bear! Grandma is holding a lolly! I want that lolly! But mama say I HAVE to stand and smile. Papa is yelling “smile! look at camera!”. This makes me want to cry”
Well-meaning family members often help out by distracting the little one, but this frequently gives mixed results – especially if there are more than two or more people doing the distraction. (Imagine so many person shouting and trying to get your attention!)
Suggestion:
Let your photographer get her attention instead. Instead, interact and play with your little one (kissing, tousling her hair, tickling her or hugging her). This enables your photographer to capture more candid pictures that you would love.
“I wriggled off mama’s lap because I saw a new shiny stool. It looks so fun! OH look! Steps! Opps, now papa is carrying me back and placing me on a rocking horse. He is telling me to ‘rock! and smile!’ I am not sure what to do. I am waiting for someone to show me what to do.”
Showing your child how to do certain poses by helping them along helps to cut down everyone’s frustration. Smile and encourage them. Singing songs and clapping certainly helps as well!
“What are you doing? Go get changed!” say papa. I want my soft red Elmo shirt but mama says it is a photoshoot. I have to wear this pretty pink dress instead. No No No! It is prickly and scratchy. I don’t want this. Now Mama is angry with me.”
Changing a toddler is challenging, especially when they have their own preferred attire. They might reject the outfits you had specially bought for the shoot.
Suggestion:
Dress them in comfortable clothing that they love. Let their preference shine through. After all, the photoshoot is to celebrate them for who they are!
Alternatively, if all they want to wear is a tatty old shirt that is totally not suitable for photographs, bring different sets of outfits and let them choose. Toddlers love the idea of having a say (who doesn’t?)!
Conclusion
Managing a toddler is unpredictable. Some are bold as bears, others require just a little bit more coaxing. In the end, they are each their own special little person, and we want to let their unique personalites shine through. Providing encouragement and understanding goes a long way.
Join us over at Instagram for daily updates. Share with me any ideas you have and I look forward to meeting you and your family in my studio! Laughters or tears, we capture ’em all!
