Setting the Stage for a Stress-Free Photo Session

Booking family photos is exciting — but if you’re a parent, you know it can also come with a little bit of stress. Will my toddler cooperate? What if the baby skips a nap? What if my older kid doesn’t want to smile? Trust me, I get it. I’m a mom too, and I know just how unpredictable kids can be.

That’s why I approach every photoshoot with patience, flexibility, and a whole lot of humor. My goal is simple: to make this an experience that feels easy for you and fun for your kids.

Before we dive in, if there’s one thing I want you to take away from this blog, it’s this: the best photos happen when you let go of perfection. No matter how much you prep or plan, the real magic comes when you stop worrying about everyone smiling or staying clean. The best images happen when kids are free to be themselves — whether that’s shy, silly, wild, or cuddly — and you’re present enough to enjoy it.

The prep can look a little different depending on your child’s age, so here’s what I recommend for each stage.

Newborns: Just Be Present

For newborn photoshoots, your only job is to show up and soak in this fleeting stage. I’ll gently guide you and your family through natural prompts while you focus on cuddling your baby. Think of me as your quiet paparazzi, capturing the tiny details like yawns, curled fists, and the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms.

If you’re worried about how your baby will handle a photoshoot, we’ll go with the flow. I always keep things baby-friendly with breaks for feeding, soothing, or diaper changes. A few essentials to have on hand: an extra diaper, a pacifier, a blanket, and a bottle or another way to feed if needed. This is why newborn sessions take a bit longer, they are in charge! We follow their lead and sometimes that means we pause for them to eat, or change or just to get some sweet snuggles.

And please know this: I’m a mom too. I understand how unpredictable postpartum life can be, and we’ll go at your pace. No rush, no pressure, just space to love on your baby while I capture it all.

Babies (3–12 Months): Keep It Simple

Once your little one can hold their head up or sit on their own, photos become more playful. At this stage, it’s all about giggles, chubby hands, and sweet milestones like grabbing toes or crawling.

The best prep is to keep it simple. Bring a favorite toy or blanket for comfort, and expect that babies will explore with their mouths. Soft, comfortable outfits work best, and backups are always a good idea. For older babies, pack a few mess-free snacks and water just in case.

Most of these sessions involve holding, tickling, hugging, and kissing your baby to bring out those joyful expressions. Babies can be unpredictable, but their curiosity and little personalities — whether giggly or serious — always make for beautiful photos.

Toddlers (12–24 Months): Let Them Be Little

Toddlers are curious, busy, and not always interested in sitting still, and that’s perfectly okay. Instead of forcing smiles, we’ll embrace who they are in this moment. That might mean running, twirling, climbing, or snuggling into your arms.

The best way to prep is to start with full bellies, because we all know hungry toddlers don’t make for happy photos. Bring a small, mess-free snack as backup, and then just let them be little. Giving them extra wiggle room often leads to the most genuine smiles and the moments you’ll treasure most.

Kids 3 and Up: Show Off Their Personality

By the time kids are preschool age and older, sessions become even more fun. Their personalities are shining through, and I love capturing that mix of silliness, independence, and connection. We’ll chat, play games, and make room for both big laughs and quiet, thoughtful moments.

Let them bring something that feels special — a favorite toy, hat, or even those beloved sneakers. At this age, it’s less about perfect poses and more about celebrating who they are right now. Whether they’re shy, goofy, or full of sass, it all belongs in your photos.

A Few Final Tips for Parents

No matter your kids’ ages, here’s what I want you to remember:

• Rested kids (and parents!) are always happier. Shift naps or sneak in quiet time if you need to.
• Full bellies make for better moods. Eat before, and save treats or a special outing for after as a reward.
• Let go of perfection. The best photos happen when kids are free to be themselves, whether they’re shy, silly, wild, or cuddly.

At the end of the day, these photos are about connection, not perfection. My job is to guide you through it all and make sure the little quirks and chaos that make your family yours shine through.

✨ Ready to capture your family in this season of life? Let’s make some magic together, no stress required.