Tips to Make Your Newborn Photos with a Toddler a Success

I know you might be feeling a bit anxious about newborn photos with a toddler. Bringing your toddler to your new baby’s newborn photo session can definitely add a new layer of complexity. It’s totally normal to worry that your toddler might act out or be less than cooperative. But don’t stress! With a bit of prep and some friendly tips, we can make the session go smoothly and capture beautiful memories of your growing family.

We will work with them and go with the flow. Toddlers are super unpredictable! I try to make it fun with new toys to explore and help keep them engaged. 

Just know that the session might feel a bit chaotic, but you will be shocked at what we can capture!

Before the Session: Get Your Toddler Excited

1. Talk About It: Start chatting with your toddler about the photo session a few days beforehand. Let them know it will be a fun time when they get to show off their new sibling. Keep it positive and exciting! About a week before the session each day you could walk her through this page on my website because it has photos of me and photos of the studio! Then they will have an idea of where your family is going to take photos with the new baby.
2. Involve Them in the Prep: Let them try on their photo outfit ahead of time. Kids love feeling involved, which can make them more excited about the session. Choose something comfy and simple—think cozy and easy to move around in. I suggest going with lighter and neutral colors. Here is a Pinterest board with some inspiration! I know most of those items might not be the right size, but they give you a good idea of color and texture. Brands like Zara, H+M, Gap, and Janie & Jack are great places to get pieces. 
3. Ask them: Do they have any ideas for the photoshoot? Maybe they want a photo of them, their favorite stuffy, and the new baby?
4. Practice Posing: If your toddler is up for it, have a little practice session at home. Show them how they’ll be sitting or standing, and let them know they’ll be doing it with you and the baby. Reference the photos in this post.
5. Set Your Expectations: And make them loooooow expectations, mama. I know this is SO stinkin’ hard, but I promise, if your expectations are high, they will spidey sense it. We have to all be cool as cucumbers lol!

During the Session: Keep It Relaxed and Fun

1. Go with the Flow: Toddlers can be unpredictable, and that’s okay! I’ll guide everyone through the session, and we’ll work with whatever mood your toddler is in. We’ll take it in stride if they need a break or a snack.
2. Incentives and Praise: Bring along a favorite toy or snack as a little reward for cooperation. Positive reinforcement goes a long way, so lots of praise and encouragement will help them feel more comfortable and willing to participate. And maybe 1-2 favorite toys/lovey – sometimes having something familiar helps.
3. Stay Calm and Patient: Kids pick up on the grown-up’s emotions around them, so staying calm and relaxed will help keep your toddler at ease. If they’re having a tough moment, we can always take a break and try again later.
4. Capture the Moments: Remember, it’s not about getting every shot perfectly; it’s about capturing the real moments of your family. Some of the best photos come from spontaneous interactions and genuine emotions. Being open to spontaneity and letting go of shot lists is the name of the game with toddlers!

Final Thoughts

I will work as hard as possible to ensure the session is as enjoyable as possible for everyone involved, and we’ll work around any hiccups that come our way. If there is anything you think I can do that would be helpful, please let me know, and I’ll be happy to accommodate!

Just know that the session might feel a bit chaotic, but that doesn’t mean the photos will look chaotic. You will be shocked at what we can capture!

Try to relax and enjoy this moment! Your toddler’s personality and charm will shine through in the photos, and you’ll have some beautiful keepsakes to cherish forever.

Have you had a newborn session with a toddler in tow? I’d love to hear if you have a tip or trick I haven’t mentioned for moms prepping for newborn photos with a toddler in the comments section!