Toddlers are inquisitive, loud, boisterous, and even shy at times.
They are a ball of big emotions.
Many parents often get nervous about how they are going to wrangle their toddler’s behaviour and get them to to be happy enough to sit still during a photo shoot. My approach to family photography isn’t about having them sit perfectly but about interaction and connection, moments that are real and have meaning to my clients.
Here I’ll share some tips for capturing little humans who usually do not respond to reason and have a huge passion for life.
1. Begin with the consultation.
Part of my process involves a consult where I get to know my clients. I know what family members are going to be involved, what they like to do together, what a typical Sunday looks like for them, and how they interact together. This helps me get to know their personality types and what’s natural and important in their life.
2. Address fears.
If young families are in your target audience then addressing some of your client’s fears is something you should do to get them booking with you. I show my potential clients what messy and loud can look like and reassure them that their family photos will be great.
3. Get down on their level and into their world.
At one session I was photographing a little boy was about two years old. He was a little shy and just happy within himself. We kicked the session off by throwing rocks into the lake, an activity he loved to do with his Grandpa. I got down on his level and shared a moment that was greatly enjoyable and interesting to him. We sat together having a laugh and throwing rocks like it was the most thrilling life experience ever. It was a great ice breaker.
4. Give the toddler a task or interact with them.
We don’t ask toddlers to sit and pose. Never. Why would we? That’s so boring! That’s not who they are or what toddler-hood is about. Usually, to get them involved and participating, I address them personally with tasks. This could be anything from feeding pets to giving baby kisses so little sister has good dreams. Interaction is key for me and talking with my toddler just like any other client is where I am going to connect and pull emotion from them.
5. Use different perspectives.
Messy is wonderful. Embrace imperfection. These simple moments can be made interesting with different perspectives. Get high, get low, behind and in front. The different angles bring in unique perspectives to childhood and give your clients more to choose from!
