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Chantelle Elise Photography

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Big Siblings in the Studio? Don’t Stress

May 17, 2026

One of the biggest worries parents have before a newborn session is usually this:

“But what if my toddler doesn’t cooperate?”

And honestly?
That worry is so normal.

Toddlers and young children are unpredictable. They’re adjusting to a brand new sibling, they’re full of energy, and sometimes being asked to sit still in a warm studio isn’t exactly their dream day out 😅

But please know — you do not need to arrive with perfectly behaved children for beautiful photos to happen.

It’s Completely Normal

There are often snack breaks.
Sometimes bribery.
Sometimes tears.
Sometimes toddlers who want absolutely nothing to do with photos for the first half an hour.

This is all incredibly common.

And most of the time?
We still create beautiful galleries full of connection and memories.

My Childcare Background Helps More Than You Think

Before photography, I worked in childcare and also began studying my Bachelor in Early Education.

That experience taught me patience, flexibility, and how to connect with little personalities in a calm and playful way.

Sometimes sessions involve silly noises, games, little breaks, cuddles, and letting children warm up in their own time — and that’s okay.

I never expect toddlers to behave like tiny adults.

The Best Photos Usually Aren’t “Perfect” Anyway

Some of the most meaningful images come from the in-between moments:

Your toddler giving baby a quick cuddle before running off.
Tiny hands holding fingers.
The chaos, the laughter, the realness of this season.

That’s the good stuff 🤍

There’s No Pressure

I guide the entire session gently and naturally, while also following your children’s lead where needed.

And if things feel a little chaotic in the moment, please trust me when I say:
it almost never looks chaotic in the final gallery.

So if you’re nervous about bringing older siblings to your newborn session, take a deep breath.

You don’t need perfect children.
You just need your family.

And we’ll take care of the rest

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Email: chantelle-eliseb@live.com
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