Tips and Tricks for Photographing Toddlers

Tips and Tricks for Photographing Toddlers

Newborn photographer Melbourne. 

When it comes to toddlers, I always say to expect the unexpected.

Put simply, toddlers are free-spirited in every way you could ever imagine. If a toddler wants to do something, there’s usually absolutely nothing stopping them from giving it their best shot. In saying that, it’s very unlikely that sitting still and being told what to do will ever be an appealing task for a toddler, and understandably so. When it comes to photography, you sometimes need to think outside of the box, especially when it comes to young children.

Fear not though, because working with those little guys and gals is ALWAYS going to be a fun time if you simply put your best foot forward and just go with the flow. Spontaneity is often the key to a successful photo shoot, and who is ever going to be more spontaneous in their actions than a toddler?!  Sure, they can be tough critics sometimes. They might cry, they might yell or they might just say no. However… In my many years working as a photographer for countless Melbourne families, I’m pretty pleased to say that I’m yet to have a toddler overrule me. One way or another, we always get there in the end and have everyone walking away with a big smile on their face (Mum and Dad included!).

Whether you are a photographer yourself or a parent who is looking to bravely schedule a photoshoot for their toddler, there are a number of tips and tricks you can keep in mind to improve your chances of an effective photography session. Here are a few of my personal favourites:

1. Give them space

In the same way that adults do, toddlers just need their space sometimes. A photography studio is a pretty big environment for a toddler to take in, so be patient with them when they arrive and give them the opportunity to explore their surroundings before jumping in. After all, the more comfortable a toddler is, the more likely they are to cooperate throughout the session.

By all means, be welcoming and engage with toddlers – Just don’t overwhelm them. I usually give a few smiles here and there and wait until they appear settled and content before asking a few simple questions (such as their name, age and interests) and introducing them to the camera.

2. Don’t start with toddler images

If your photoshoot involves both a toddler and a newborn, I highly encourage you to start with the newborn images. This not only gives the toddler a chance to settle any nerves or discomfort associated with a new environment, but it also gives them the opportunity to see what’s involved in a photoshoot and to learn what to expect when it’s time for them to take the stage. If something isn’t working for a toddler, don’t force it. Take things at their pace and always be mindful and respectful of their limits – Each child is different.

3. Encourage them to get involved

This step is super simple. Ask the toddler to be your helper and have them be involved in the process by asking them to hold things for you, pass things to you and check out the photos on the camera for their “seal of approval”. Value and appreciation is HUGE for toddlers as they love to feel that special sense of importance. Embrace it!

4. Get on their level

Prior to working with a toddler, I very much encourage you to learn about the “in things” of current day kid society. By this, I mean learning what the most popular TV show is, or how the most popular toys or games work. Trust me when I say that a little knowledge of these ever-important factors can go a long way when working with the young ones. Sharing an interest in the things they like is a great way to build that rapport and establish a comfy environment for them.

5. Get tech savvy

Now, I’m not one to overly encourage the use of technology when it comes to children. Although… I am a strategic businesswoman and when push comes to shove, you gotta do what you gotta do.

Google their favourite TV show/song on your phone or tablet to grab their attention, put them in a good mood and give them a little extra motivation to focus on the camera and share their beautiful smile.

6. Bribe them

Again, I’m not always a huge advocate for any acts relating to bribery and/or corruption… Except when I’m in my studio, in which case bribery is widely accepted and not at all frowned upon. Well, what did I just say? You gotta do what you gotta do.

Sometimes, you’ve just got to meet a toddler halfway and live up your end of the deal. I will often tell toddlers that if they sit for a photo for me, they can take a photo of Mum with my fancy and fun camera (with my help, of course). With the permission of their parents, I might even offer a lollipop. I also encourage parents to bring along some bribery material of their own when I chat to them prior to the shoot. Whatever helps us to get those perfect shots is A-Okay in my books!

7. Fake it!

Quite often, that gorgeous image you see above someone’s dining table is often the work of clever editing. In my eyes, there is absolutely no harm in using composite shots when it comes to toddlers and newborns.

If you are shooting sibling photos, have the toddler sit near a prop box before placing the baby in it. Encourage the toddler to look at you and smile (using their favourite interests if need be), snap the shot and then take a separate image of the newborn in the prop box once you’re done. Photoshop the two images together and voilà! Easy magic. This is the safest and most effective way to capture those gorgeous sibling photos. Using composite techniques also allows for a smoother session if the toddler is unsettled or upset as it saves them from doing any extra work.

Well, there you have it. I hope these tips will be helpful for you, and I would love to hear if you have any extra of your own! Just wrote them in the comments below. I’ve proudly worked with Melbourne families for years on end now to conduct those special newborn, maternity, sibling and family photoshoots, and would love to hear from you if you are interested in booking one of your own.

Until next time,

Em

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