Thinking about booking a family session but worried your toddler won’t sit still? You’re not the only one. Most parents tell me the same thing:

“What if they melt down?”
“What if they won’t smile?”
“What if we spend the whole time chasing them around?”

Good news: toddlers don’t have to sit still to get beautiful family photos. In fact, the wiggles, giggles, and real-life moments are often what make the best images.

Toddlers Are Supposed to Move

Toddlers are busy little humans. They run, explore, and do things on their own terms. Instead of fighting that, I plan sessions to work with it. I never expect your toddler to pose like a statue. I expect them to move, and I build time and space for it.

Some of the sweetest photos happen in between the “posed” moments: when your child is snuggling into your shoulder, reaching for your hand, or laughing mid-spin. Those are the ones that tell your story.

A Playful Approach

My goal in every session is to keep things fun. That might mean singing songs, playing peek-a-boo, or letting your little one run between you while I capture all the laughter that follows.

We keep the energy relaxed and low-pressure. The more relaxed the vibe, the more natural the smiles. And don’t worry if things get a little silly. That’s often when the best photos happen.

Parents Set the Tone

Kids pick up on our energy fast. If you’re stressed, they feel it. That’s why I encourage parents to show up ready to relax and enjoy the moment. Don’t stress about whether your toddler is "cooperating." Just focus on snuggling, laughing, and being together.

When parents lean in, toddlers usually do too. And if they don’t? That’s okay. A squirmy toddler in your arms still makes an honest, beautiful photo.

Short Attention Spans Are Normal

Toddlers don’t last through long sessions, and that’s totally fine. I keep things moving at their pace. We’ll start with a few simple portraits while everyone’s fresh, then shift into candid, playful shots.

If they need a break, we take one. If they want to run, I’ll grab my camera and follow. Sessions are flexible because the goal is connection, not perfection.

Why These Photos Matter

You might come into your session feeling nervous about how it’ll go. But years from now, you’ll see something else entirely. You’ll notice the way their curls bounced when they ran, the sparkle in their eyes when you made them laugh, and how they always wanted to be in your arms.

Family photos with toddlers aren’t about stiff smiles. They’re about capturing the beautiful chaos of this season of life just as it is.

A Note for Moms

If you’re holding off on family photos because life feels too messy, I promise, now is the perfect time. Your toddler doesn’t need to behave. You don’t need to be photo-ready. You just need to show up and love your family the way you always do.

Because it’s not about perfect. It’s about real.