Why Toddlers are the Perfect Age for Photos
A letter to all my moms with toddlers…
Dear Mama,
I see you. I know you’re struggling. I know some days, it’s even hard for you to get out the door at all. I know about the dishes stacked up in the sink, the never-ending dirty laundry piles, the diaper bin that constantly needs to be emptied. I understand you constantly step on crumbs. I’ve been that parent who never has the right item in the diaper bag. I’ve had to leave stores because my kids won’t behave. I believe you when you say you’re exhausted.
“...so then, why, Elizabeth, are you going to tell me that I should have photos taken with my toddlers?”
Hear me out. I believe toddlers are one of the most adorable and cutest ages to photograph, and it’s easier than you might think. Here are some of my tips for photographing toddlers, as showcased by a gorgeous family session by the Vetter family in Grand Rapids!
PHOTOGRAPH YOUR TODDLERS BEING ACTIVE
I suggest starting your shoot by knocking out your flat-out must haves - the family photo shot, the staged smiling toddler and Mom and Dad. Obviously, we’ll want to have your son or daughter come to the shoot fed, clean diapered, and well-rested (happy to work around naptime). That way, if things start going awry, we’ve at least gotten enough to work with to make it have been worth our while. But after those must-have shots, it’s time for the fun to begin. Toddlers have a short attention span, and as you’ll see with the little boy here, we have to embrace that active nature because it’s part of this stage in life that we’ll want to capture. Allow your kid to run, be silly, and be full of energy - that’s what makes for great photos!
LET YOUR CHILD BRING FAVORITE ITEMS TO THE PHOTO SHOOTS
Does your toddler have a lovie that goes with him or her everywhere? Does he or she have a favorite song, character, or a toy? Bring it with you and make it be part of our time together! I’ve been known to play a certain song on repeat for toddlers who are obsessed with Bluey, or Peppa Pig, or Daniel Tiger. I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to getting the best shots of your adorable child!
RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR TIME CONNECTING
I know you think you will never have a clean house or not have to listen to The Fresh Beat Band, but as Gretchen Rubin says, “The days are long but the years are short.” Embrace this stage of awe and wonder where you are the best part of your child’s life. Cuddle them, tickle them, listen to their giggles, play with them, and let me capture all of it! Children feed off the energy of their parents, so if they see you having a good time, I guarantee it will translate to a successful session.
FIND A PHOTOGRAPHER WHO LOVES BEING WITH KIDS
As the letter above illustrates, I GET you, Mama. I’m a mom myself and have been in all the situations that I spelled out. I’ve seen my own share of tantrums, changed poopy blow outs, kissed boo boos, and chosen to embrace all the insanity that is life with young children. I recognize above all that your child is his or her own person. One of the hardest parts of parenting is understanding that we cannot always control our children’s behavior. Meltdowns are part of life (and as an adult, I still might have some too :) ). If we need to take breaks, we’ll take them. If we need to change locations or plans to suit your child’s needs, we can absolutely do that. Don’t wait until your child is older to capture these precious moments. Schedule a shoot with me today!
