If My Toddler Won't Sit Still during the Photoshoot

Worried Your Toddler Won't Sit Still? | Sarasota Family Photographer

Concerned about your photo session with your toddler(s)?  You might be thinking:

• I know my toddler will not sit still during the photo session
• I know my toddler acts a little crazy - constantly on the go and probably won't smile
• I know my toddler will want to hide behind me and will be hard to warm up to the camera

As a Sarasota family photographer, I can understand your concerns with having family photos taken with toddlers. As a young grandmother of six grandchildren (with the seventh on the way), four of them being 3 years old and younger, I know exactly how you feel.  You might be stressing that we won't get any great images with your toddler staying still or smiling at all. If this will be your first time working with me, you may be wondering exactly what to expect.  

Since I am a lifestyle photographer, it won't bother me one bit if your toddler just wants to be a toddler. Whether that's running around, digging in the dirt, or playing in the water.  They are being who they are at that moment, and that is what is important to capture and you will treasure forever.  It does not make sense to me to EVER try and make a child be anything other than themselves, except how they are feeling at the moment I am capturing them. I don't photograph with everyone stiffly posed, forcing smiles looking at the camera. I may get one or two of those shots, but it will mostly be capturing emotions, connection and true life.  I love candid moments.  By hiring me as your photographer, this is what you want captured for you and your family.  Capturing those genuine, raw, authentic emotions are what you are after.  This may mean running around with your children, playing games or snuggling up on a blanket.  I always strive to keep your toddler interacting and happy.  This will, of course, mean you'll be happy which, in turn, will result in incredible images and a memorable photo session.

I will let the toddler sort of and/or let them think they are in charge of the session.  If they want to sit down and play, we'll do that.  If they want to run, we'll run.  If they want to be all lovey and snuggly, we'll do that.  May I suggest you not say, "no" or offer bribes?  This may actually spoil the session.  If you truly want authentic emotion and connection, this probably won't be the best way.  I just try to keep it fun and laid back.  I just want you to be with your children as if you are on an outing and I'm not even there, at least, for the most part. :-)  I absolutely want to finish the session seeing how much you and your children had fun.

Excited to experience a relaxed, fun lifestyle photography session?  Contact me.  I'm ready to have fun.  Are you?