It’s not surprising that many parents of toddlers are hesitant to consider hiring a photographer to document their family. They want the documentation but they have concerns that their little one can’t handle an hour-long photo session. They may also have concerns that the photographer can’t handle their little drunken sailor. Below are some truths about what sessions with toddlers are really like.

Resourced Toddlers Are Happy Toddlers 🤗

All the knowledge that parents already possess about their unique kids and their kids’ unique needs need to be heeded to perfection on family photo shoot day. Even before your shoot day, ask yourself: what time of day is my kid at their best? what preceding activity would put my kid in the best mood? what foods seem to energize my kid (in the best way)? what kind of location will my kid handle best - home? the beach? a park?, what people tend to enliven my kids? If toddlers can be resourced as best as possible, we’re already mostly there in terms of having an enjoyable family photography session.

Family Photo Sessions With Toddlers Are Unpredictable 🥴

It’s no surprise that toddlers are unpredictable and family sessions with them are no different. Rather than seeing this as an impediment, I see it as one of the best parts of photographing families with toddlers. Toddlers keep things spontaneous and lively and active and goofy. Those are all prized qualities in a family photo session. Sure, the unpredictability means that tears may happen (tantrums even). Wipeouts and muddied clothing may occur. The dire need for a snack break is totally possible. There is room for all of it.

Everything That Happens Will Make the Best Memories 🥰

Regardless of whether your toddlers giggles and gently holds your hand or yelps and runs away with one shoe on, the dynamic of your family at this moment in time is thing worth documenting. The truth is there will likely be a mix of serene moments and more frustrating ones. The photographer’s role is to tell a meaningful and loving story of the time you spend together. If the photographer does their job well, those images of the meltdown are as cherished and frame-worthy as the one showing your toddler blowing on the dandelion flower.

The family featured below have THREE toddlers. I won’t say this session was “easy” but it was very, very fun. 🤩 If you’ve been on the fence about having a family session with your toddler, take a look at my family session options to see if one might be right of your family.