There’s an age – usually from around 18 months to 3 years old – that I like to call the ‘Age of No’. If you’ve met anyone in this age group, you’ll know what I mean.
Toddlers are going through a really important stage in their development and are testing boundaries and generally working out where they fit in the world which is perfectly normal and sometimes even adorable until you try to get them to do something that you want them to do. This can sometimes include posing for photos in the studio 🙂
There’s no magic bullet for getting a toddler to cooperate in the studio – which is sad but true. I’d pay a lot for that super power. However, I’ve been doing my job for a lot of years and there is some stuff that works and some stuff that definitely doesn’t. In the case of this family, the youngest member definitely didn’t want to play ball until I invented a game of catch the squeaker. The resulting image, I grant you, wouldn’t win any formal posing awards but it’s an image where he’s happy, smiling and it’s full of life which kind of sums up that family.
Capturing the Chaos (In the Best Way!)
If you have a toddler, you already know—they don’t sit still for long. And that’s completely fine! In fact, one of the best things about toddler photography is capturing their natural energy and personality rather than forcing them into stiff poses.
A professional photography session with a toddler isn’t about expecting them to stay still and follow instructions—it’s about working with their energy and curiosity to create beautiful, natural images. Here’s how I do it, and how you can prepare for a stress-free and fun experience.
What to Expect at a Toddler Photoshoot
Movement is Part of the Process
Toddlers don’t sit still for long, so instead of expecting a session where they stay posed, we keep things flexible and playful. Of course, I need them to be roughly in the right place in the studio as I have to light them but they’ll explore, run, jump, and occasionally pause just long enough for a perfect shot.
What I do: I use a mix of posed moments and candid interactions to get the best of both worlds—natural, happy expressions and beautiful portraits.
Top Tip:
Don’t worry about keeping them still and asking them to smile for the camera or say ‘cheese’—as long as they’re safe, let them be themselves! Some of the most magical images happen when they’re fully in their element.
We Take Breaks (and Make It Fun!)
Unlike newborns or older children, toddlers have short attention spans—so expecting them to stay engaged for long stretches isn’t realistic. That’s why I naturally build mini breaks into the session.
What I do: I let them move around, switch things up frequently, and use fun props or little games to keep their attention. If they lose interest, that’s OK! We’ll pause, let them reset, and bring them back in a way that feels fun, not forced.
Connection Over Perfection
Some toddlers will sit and smile on cue. Others will run around, pull faces, and giggle uncontrollably. Both are completely fine! Every child is different, and the goal is to capture their true personality rather than a forced grin.
What I do: I focus on capturing authentic expressions—the wide-eyed curiosity, the belly laughs, even the serious stares that show off their little personalities. So don’t stress if they won’t perform on command. Instead, we let the session unfold naturally—it always results in images you’ll love.
Props, Toys & Interaction Work Wonders
Bringing in a favourite toy or using some of the simple props that I have at the studio can help keep toddlers engaged. Whether it’s a little stool, miniature chair, a soft toy, or something to hold, these elements can make them feel more comfortable and help create adorable moments.
What I do: I use interactive prompts—peekaboo, clapping, pretending to find something behind the camera—to create genuine smiles and reactions.
Top Tip:
Feel free to bring a small toy they love that you don’t mind being in the pictures—sometimes a familiar object can help them settle in.
How to Prepare for a Toddler Photoshoot (and no, it doesn’t involve a stiff drink!)
Dress Them in Something Comfortable – Outfits should be simple, comfy, and not too fussy—if they hate wearing it, they won’t be happy! Stick with soft fabrics, neutral tones, and nothing too tight or restrictive.
Bring Snacks & Water – A hungry toddler = grumpy toddler, so having a few non-messy snacks on hand is always a good idea.
Timing is Everything – Try to book a time when they’re usually well-rested—avoiding nap time clashes helps keep the session smooth!
Relax & Enjoy the Process – Toddlers pick up on energy—if you’re relaxed, they’ll feel relaxed. There’s no pressure to get “perfect” shots—I’ll work with your child’s natural energy to create beautiful, genuine portraits.
Toddler Photoshoots Are All About the Moment
At this stage, kids are full of personality, curiosity, and movement—which is exactly what makes toddler photos so special. The key is embracing their natural energy and letting the session flow around them.
So if you’re thinking, “My child would never sit still for a photoshoot!”—trust me, they don’t have to. That’s what I’m here for. 😉
Everything You Need to Know About Family Photography
Whether you’re preparing for your first family portrait session or looking for expert tips to make your photos shine, I’ve created a selection of helpful articles to guide you every step of the way. Dive into my comprehensive articles to find everything you need to make your family photoshoot a success! If you don’t find the answers to your question here, of course I’m always happy to help so just get in touch
Family Portrait Photography in East Grinstead
Your family’s unique moments deserve to be captured in stunning, professional portraits. Let’s work together to create timeless images that reflect your family’s personality and connections. Whether it’s a fun, candid shoot or a more formal portrait, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Get in touch today to start planning your perfect family photography session!
