Toddlers, let’s just say they can be the wild card at family sessions. They are young, wild and want to be free, as they should. Over the years I’ve found these five tips for a fun family maternity session to be very helpful for me, parents, and even other photographers.

1 – Lower your expectations

Let’s be real, and as I said, they can be such a wild card, especially at outdoor locations  where they want to explore and find their way. Just know I have these tricks up my sleeve (and more!!!=) to ensure a successful and memorable session.

2 – Play games!

Depending on what location I’m shooting at, we can play all kinds of fun games, red light green light, simon says, I usually just try and learn a little more about the toddlers personality and then go from there. Games = fun!

3 – Leave them out

Just like that. 9.5 out of 10 times if the toddler just isn’t having it, I will focus on the parents and just capturing some sweet moments with them, and they come running back!

4 –  Be creative with prompts

If the big sister or big brother to be is busy, which let’s be honest they usually are, they usually always have time to stop and give mom’s belly a kiss or hug, or kiss baby =)

5 – Just have FUN

Simple! Just make it fun, if some things aren’t working, walk around explore, find flowers, play I spy, the list goes on. Focus more on having fun, the sweet in between moments, it’s the best way to success!

Here are some super sweet moments from Kelly’s maternity session. Big brother was definitely busy, and I used all of these tricks and tips during this session. I’d say they worked like a charm=)

I hope my five tips for a fun family maternity session were helpful. Watching family’s grow is one of the best parts of my job. I am booking due dates well into 2022, so if you are expecting, now is the time to reach out!