Tips for a Low-Stress Maternity Photo Shoot with Your Toddler
Congratulations on your growing family! Not only as a Pasadena Maternity Photographer, but also as two moms raising 5 kids between us from ages 2-14, we know how stressful it can be with a small sibling in tow at your maternity session.
Maternity photo shoots are a wonderful way to capture the excitement and anticipation of welcoming a new addition. However, when you have a toddler or young child in tow, it can sometimes add an extra layer of challenge to the process. But fear not! With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can still have a beautiful and stress-free maternity photo shoot with your little one. Here are some friendly tips to help make your session go smoothly:
Choose a Location Your Child Enjoys: One of the keys to a successful photo shoot with a toddler is to pick a location that they will find interesting or enjoyable. Whether it's a local park, a beach, or even just the backyard, selecting a setting that your child likes can help keep them engaged and cooperative throughout the session. At our studio, we have plenty of location options for a maternity photo shoot in Pasadena, so we'll work with you to find the perfect spot that suits your family and keeps your little one interested.
Plan a Reward: Let's face it, toddlers thrive on motivation. Planning a special reward for after the photo shoot can serve as a great incentive for good behavior during the session. Whether it's their favorite snack, a trip to the playground, or some extra playtime with mom and dad, having something to look forward to can help keep your little one focused and cooperative. Make sure you let us in on the details of the reward so we can use it throughout the session too!
Prep Them Beforehand: Get your child excited about the photo shoot by talking to them about it beforehand. Use positive language like "We're going on an adventure" or "We're going to have so much fun taking pictures together." Setting the stage for a fun and exciting experience can help build anticipation and enthusiasm in your child.
4. Bring Along Their Favorites: When it comes to toddlers, bribery can be a lifesaver! Be sure to pack their favorite toys and snacks to keep them happy and entertained throughout the session. We understand the power of a beloved stuffed animal or a tasty treat, and we're more than happy to incorporate them into the shoot to help elicit natural smiles and laughter from your little one. Here’s our favorite snack for a shoot that doesn’t make their face and clothing messy and doesn’t require a lot of chewing that may show up in photos!
5. Go with the Flow: Last but not least, remember to go with the flow. Toddlers are notorious for their unpredictability, and trying to force them into poses or expressions they're not comfortable with will only lead to frustration for everyone involved. Our photography style is very natural and relaxed, focusing on capturing genuine moments and interactions between you and your child. So relax, have fun, and let us work our magic behind the camera. Always remember that this is what your family is like at this time in your life, so sometimes the perfect pictures, isn’t necessarily polished and perfect. It’s just YOU.
With a little preparation and a flexible attitude, you can have a wonderful and stress-free maternity photo shoot with your toddler. By choosing a location they enjoy, planning a reward, prepping them beforehand, bringing along their favorite toys and snacks, and going with the flow, you'll be sure to capture beautiful memories that you'll cherish for years to come. Reach out to us so we can plan the best location for your shoot!
