8 tips for photographing babies, toddlers and children

1)   Get them excited before the session 

In my photography session preparation guide, I recommend that the parents get their children excited about the session long before they come through the door of the studio. This way, their excitement can be at its peak, on the day of the session, as they eagerly look forward to being photographed. 

2)   Introduce yourself/the photographer

Get down on your knees so that you are at their level and introduce yourself as the photographer in a friendly and warm manner. It is something that we do naturally as adults and we should always remember to do it with children.

3)   Choose the right moment 

While timing does not really matter for sessions with newborns, it really does for babies, toddlers, and children in general. Since they usually have a schedule and established naptime, it is essential to schedule their photo session around their schedule. In my Aix-en-Provence studio, baby and toddler sessions take place in the morning (usually after the ‘morning nap’) when they are well rested and relaxed. It is usually the time when they are the happiest and want to play and smile.

4)   Make it fun

Fun is an integral part of every child’s experience! Sitting and/or staying still can be fine for a little bit, but having fun will make the kid’s personality shine through! Put some music on and let them dance. Pull out some bubbles and let them run after it. Make funny noise and capture their laughter. 

5)   Let them play

Babies and toddlers love to play. This is the way they learn most things. Letting them play will help keep them in one place and get some great lifestyle shots. It will also open up opportunities for some detailed close-up shots e.g. shots of their little hands and feet, their hair, etc. 

In my Provence studio, I have delicate wood toys at my clients’ disposal. The kids love them. They are simple, neutral-color objects that will keep their cute faces at the center of the photograph.

6)   Give them their favorite toy/comfort object

I always recommend that the children, especially babies and toddlers, bring their favorite toy or comfort object along to the session. Cuddling a familiar object can put the child at ease. In addition, comfort toys can serve as memory-pieces of the kid’s childhood and family life.

7)    Bring a snack along

Being a model can seriously make your little one hungry during the session. So, it is advisable to ask the kids’ parent(s) to bring a snack along as a little ‘snack break’ is often welcome.

8)   Take Breaks and Keep it short 

Babies and toddlers usually love to play the photography game… until they don’t. In addition to ensuring sessions are tailored to the children’s personalities, I allow the kids to take breaks whenever they want to. 

I also try to keep the sessions as efficient as possible so that they are happy the whole time! Because children have short attention span, by taking breaks and keeping things short, they will be able to retain focus and interest in the session for much longer. 

If you would like more information, or are interested in booking a portrait session for your baby, toddler or child in our Aix-en-Provence studio, contact me by clicking on the button below.