What do you do when your toddler doesn't want to look at the camera during your session?
Have you ever gone to your photo session with a toddler who has no desire to participate in the photo taking process? It can feel defeating to some parents. All you want is cute photos of your little one and it seems like it's never going to happen. I've been there with my own children, I understand the struggle, believe me! I want to help prepare you for your next photo session with a few helpful tips.
First, Breathe, know that it is OK and NORMAL! 80% of toddlers I work with are exactly the same way. I'm a stranger to them and it's perfectly fine for them to feel a bit shy. Even the toddlers who are the happiest at home tend to be a little timid at first.
Scheduling your Session
Plan ahead for your session, make sure you schedule around your toddler's schedule. Routine is key when it comes to your toddler's participation in your session. If they take a nap at Four, don't schedule your session at Three. Choose a time that your toddler is the happiest, whether if in the morning or right after a meal. Make sure you talk with your photographer about the times that best fit your family's schedule.
Arriving to your Session
Make sure to arrive to your session a few minutes early. This is helpful for a handful of reasons. If you have a car sleeper, it gives them time to wake up without having to rush around to take photos. No one wants to do that!
It also gives your toddler a chance to take in their surroundings and settle in.
Meeting your Photographer
When your photographer arrives, they should take a few minutes to interact with you and your toddler together so they can feel comfortable with them. Some little ones may take longer to open up than others but most of the time they tend to open up and start showing their cute little personalities. That's where your session should start
Remember not all toddlers are the same. We all have different personalities. I personally love candid shots! So if your little doesn't open up by the time we start our session, it's OK! My goal for every session is to give you photos that you will cherish so if it takes a little longer, I'm 100% ok with that!
Do you have a shy kiddo? What is something you do to help them open up around people they may not know? Do they have a favorite song, or game you play?
