I love capturing the essence of a toddler’s personality through photography. Guided by their curiosity, toddlers are always eager to explore the world around them. Their expressions are genuine and unfiltered. Something as simple as a ladybug nestled inside of a flower can evoke an overwhelming sense of wonder. The sound of a favorite song sparks the desire to dance or clap with joy. These spontaneous, innocent moments are invaluable treasures to preserve. As a photographer, I let these scenes unfold naturally. With a few clicks of the camera, I can capture genuine expressions that take your breath away.
One of my favorite ways to photograph toddlers is by giving them the alphabet letters corresponding to the letters of their age. Since toddlers are constantly in motion, this is an opportunity for great candids. I wait for the magic to happen and am pleasantly surprised by the results.
The key to a successful toddler portrait session is patience, simple props, gentle prompting and remember that being a spectator to the scene allows you to click away at what us unfolding in front of you.
Toddlers have boundless energy, so it’s important to be mindful of any signs of fatigue. If they start loosing focus and are fussy, it’s time for a break. A protein snack, some hydration, and a brief cuddle with Mom often provide the needed reset, allowing for a change of clothing or props.
As a professional, it’s our responsibility to create lasting memories. That is why I always encourage parents to paticipate in the photo session. Since parents are usually the ones behind the camera, they may not appear in many of the family’s photo albums.
So to wrap it up, the key to a successfull toddler photo session is patience, minimal props, and subtle encouragement. Remember, that simply observing the scene unfolding before you allows for authentic, genuine moments.
BIO: My heart is in my business. I love capturing the complexity of people with a camera and archive moments worth remembering.
I earned my Master of Photograpy degree and my Photographic Certification through the Professional Phtographers of America. However, photography is an art form that is constantly evolving. As a result, I attend professional photography seminars and workshops staying up to date with the art and technology of the business.
