I know you don’t like hearing this, but kids really really grow up so fast. One day you’re tripping over blocks, next day they’re asking for the car keys. That’s why photo sessions aren’t just “nice-to-haves”, they’re essential time capsules, ensuring that you’ll never forget any of this.
I get it: the thought of planning your child’s photo session can make even the most organized parent rather repaint the entire living room. Deep breaths. I promise, it doesn’t have to be stressful (and hey, sometimes it’s even a blast).
Let’s break it down so you can show up confident, relaxed, and excited to create gorgeous photos for your walls!
What Should They Wear? (The Outfit Panic)
Choosing the perfect outfit for photos can be pure chaos. I get it. Your kid is insisting on wearing a halloween costumer and rain boots, while you’re left scrambling for a tylenol and trying to figure out which shade of blue would photograph best. Here’s thing, though: you don’t have to stress. I’ve got a studio closet filled with a variety of options, at zero extra cost to you. Of course if you love that cute sweater or your child is in love with their newest outfit, go ahead and add it to your bag! You can even bring a few options and we will sort it out together.
I do always suggest bringing an extra set of photo-ready clothing, just in case. It doesn’t have to be said, but kids somehow attract every mess and spill imaginable, so it’s always best to be prepared. Also, be sure to lay out the outfits a couple days before, and do a quick fit check ahead of time (those growth spurts happen out of no where!), rather than scrambling morning of.
Snacks: The Secret Weapon
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: snacks save the day. A handful of crackers can turn a tantrum into a smile, no joke. I do try to keep some simple snacks on hand at the studio (think, no- mess snacks such as goldfish and fruit snacks) but bringing your child’s favorite treat is always a good idea, just be sure to avoid the messy stuff! Definitely stay away from chocolate, dyes, powdered sugar…you get the idea. The last thing you want is to spend half the session wiping crumbs and sticky foods off tiny faces and cute clothes. It’s also important to do a check before hopping in front of the camera again, making sure there’s no food stuck between teeth or anything.
Be sure to feed your child before arriving. Hungry kids are cranky kids, and no amount of bribery will get a hangry toddler to smile for the camera. I don’t know about you, but I can totally relate to that, I don’t want to be bothered when Im hangry, either!
Comfort Equals Calm
You know that one stuffed animal your child drags everywhere? The one missing an ear, the stain that you want to wash but too afraid the washing machine may destroy it? Don’t leave it at home! Seriously, comfort items are magic in a new environment. They help your child feel safe, and honestly, you’ll love having a few memories of your child’s most loved possessions, especially when years from now you find it discarded and no longer loved daily. Don’t worry if you’re nervous about “ruining” the photos with a toy, these really will be some of your most prized images, as your heart reaches for every memory of their little years.
Patience, Sense of Humor, and Laid Back Are Essentials
I know the urge: You want those perfect, smiling photos. The thing is, yelling “smile!” over and over is a surefire way to get those awkward, forced faces. At times, it can even lead to tears, as your child will become frustrated for not smiling “the right way”. The best photos happen when you let your kid just be themselves. If they want to dance, let’s have fun! If they need a minute to warm up, no big deal, it’s exactly why I don’t schedule back to back. Sometimes the favorite images end up being the silly ones, the shy ones, or the ones where they’re just totally lost in their own little world.
Being even more honest, sometimes things just go off the rails. Maybe there’s a meltdown, or a sudden fascination with a random object they discover. It’s all part of the experience. Rest knowing that we aren’t staring at the clock, worried about finishing up in a short 10 minute slot. I know kids need room to be unpredictable. We’ve got time. If your child needs a break, wants to explore, or just needs to cuddle for a bit, that’s totally fine. No rush, zero pressure. Let’s reset, maybe hang out in the kids play area, and try again in a few minutes.
Roll With It
Honestly, the most important thing is to remember, whatever happens, you’ll get beautiful photos that will make your heart explode. Yes… even if your kid spends half the session pretending to be a dinosaur! In fact, those will very likely end up being some of your favorites! So relax, trust the process, and get ready to capture some memories of life exactly as it is now!
