Ever wonder how to get that picture-perfect pinterest-worthy photograph with your feisty toddler and her new sibling? It might seem challenging since toddlers can be unpredictable, difficult to bribe, and sometimes want nothing to do with the new baby. Some of my tips and hacks for handling toddlers can be found here but read on for some of my secrets to getting amazing newborn and toddler shots!
Tip 1: Always start with Family photos!
This way, toddlers or little children find it easier to warm up (to the camera). I always start the session with mummy and daddy around. Simple poses like looking at the baby or kissing baby together with mummy not only set them at ease, they often create stunning images as well! Remember, up to a couple of weeks ago, they were the center of their parents’ lives. There have been a lot of changes now, and most likely a little less attention for them. Hence I always make time to engage and play with the toddler during each session.
Tip 2: Find the happy hour
Most toddlers already have a rather fixed schedule, so let’s work together and have the session when they are fresh and alert. Avoid afternoons or late evening timings as they are often tired and cranky during those hours. I find that mornings, when natural light is at it’s best, work the best for everybody.
Tip 3: Let them be little helpers
Toddlers are naturally curious and love to help out. I often start the session by ‘asking them for help’. Such as light-tests or asking them to ‘help me’ hold the baby. I often ask them to ‘help me’ pick out their favourite colour for the baby wrap. This way, they feel they are part of the shoot and are often more than happy to lie down for that cuddly picture with baby!
Tip 4: Expectations
I like to tell elder sister what to expect and how long it will take – “We’re going to take one picture of Mummy and your baby brother and it’s going to be very fast ok?” Children often find things much easier to manage and follow instructions when they know what to expect, and that there is an end time.
Tip 5: Adjusting our own Expectations
Toddlers will be toddlers after all. If some poses do not work, we can always them take a break while we take baby solo shots first. Ultimately, we want relaxed and natural photographs that are organic and not ‘posed’ or forced. Young children work very well with praises, so do be sure to let them know they are doing a great job!
I hope this gives you some useful tips for photographing toddlers and some idea of how we can have some control of such situations during a shoot.
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