Parents often wonder how in the world will I get their toddler to cooperate while trying to preserve this precious time in their lives. The truth is, it’s NEVER a guarantee a toddler or newborn will fall into my shenanigans but I know it is ALWAYS worth the effort to try! This adorable Boynton Beach family has documented milestones in their family with me before. Ashley called to schedule a newborn appointment and she literally said “good luck with this crew!” A five year old, a just turned two year old and a four week old. I was up for the challenge!
Here are three key things to make a session with a newborn and a toddler go smoothly.
- Trust your photographer! Choose someone with experience so they know how to handle these ages. Follow the tips they give before you arrive to your session.
- Let the photographer do their job! It’s essential to come into the session with positive energy and a willingness to lend a hand without trying to bribe your kids into doing what you want. BRIBES don’t necessarily work. MOST of the time children will listen to someone they don’t know as well, so let the photographer give the children instructions. If they need you to try and get smiles, they will let you know! Come into the session with NO expectations.
- Book when the newborn is NEW! Waiting too long might mean a newborn won’t sleep and this just means more chaos during your session. Let’s be honest, we are going to be chasing a toddler, the last thing we want to worry about is an awake newborn trying to settle in. Sessions tend to go more smoothly if the baby is less than 10 days old. We were really lucky with this little guy who was 4 weeks old when this session was taken.
I have been serving Boynton Beach and the surrounding communities for almost thirteen years and I would welcome the opportunity to talk to you further about your newborn portrait session. Newborn due dates can be held up to 6 months in advance. Please see www.justtoseeyousmile.com for more information.