If you’re coming into a family, maternity or newborn session with toddlers or young kids, this is your gentle reminder that perfection is not the goal.
Kids are kids. And honestly, that’s part of the magic.
Let’s be real for a moment.
They probably won’t behave the way you imagine
They might get bored
They might get over it halfway through
And that is completely normal.
I photograph families every week and I can promise you this. The sessions that turn out the most natural and beautiful are rarely the ones where children sit perfectly still and smile on cue.
They’re the ones where kids are allowed to be themselves.
What I do during your session
My approach is always pressure free.
I keep things fun and light
I move at their pace
I turn moments into games
I never force smiles
There are high fives, silly moments and plenty of encouragement. I always have stickers ready as little rewards, and a lot of patience. If a child needs a break, we take one. If they need a cuddle, we pause. Nothing is rushed.
Some of the best images come from the in between moments, not the posed ones.
It also helps to go into your session without high expectations. For little ones, this is a big change too. If they’re becoming a big sibling, they’re adjusting to sharing attention, new routines and a whole lot of emotions they can’t always explain. Wanting extra attention, acting out or needing reassurance is completely normal. Giving them grace during the session makes a huge difference, and often leads to the most genuine moments being captured.
What helps from your side
The biggest thing you can do is stay calm and relaxed. Kids absolutely pick up on your energy. If you’re stressed, they’ll feel it too.
A little prep beforehand can help
Talk to them about what to expect
Let them know it will be fun and not a test
Bring a favourite small toy or snack if needed
And know that I also have toys and little distractions in the studio if we need them.
The takeaway
Your child does not need to be “good” for your photos to be beautiful.
They just need to be them.
Trust the process, trust your kids, and trust that even the chaotic moments often turn into the ones you end up loving the most.
Because kids will be kids. And that’s exactly how it should be.
