The Toddler is the Boss

If you are thinking you might get the perfectly posed smile in a portrait, you might be right.  But, my guess is you are wrong.  As soon as they know you want a smile, that could be the last thing you will get that day!  They aren't being bad; they are just acting their age.

My mantra on photographing toddlers is that they are the boss.  The last thing I will say to them is smile, and I hope we can agree to do a few things before and during your session.

• Tell them you are going to have some fun at Angela's.  Don't say the word picture, don't tell them ahead of time to smile, or that you'll buy them a treat if they are good.  You are there for some fun.

• During the session, please limit who comes to the session.  Three adults working one child in front of the camera - it's deer in headlights! 

• Let's focus on a peaceful session. I'd really prefer to play some fun music and keep everyone calm.  One person at a time can see if they have the magic trick to get the smile. 

• Breathe. We are not in a hurry, so we will take a few breaks. We really want smiles and happy faces from your child, and I really want Mom to enjoy the experience as well.  You are stressed enough, so come to the studio and we will see what we can capture today. It will be a great surprise for all of us! 

• Snacks - please bring snacks.  Bring neutral colored snacks like tiny crackers but not anything that will stain their teeth or clothes.  Bring them a drink as well.  A hungry child is a cranky child.

• Pre session naps are important.  On the session days I hear more often that they skipped their nap that day, or they woke them up from a nap to be on time.  I am seriously flexible most of the time.  Let that child sleep, and if we need to shift your session by an hour, I would rather do that if my schedule allows it. 

Most importantly for Moms - don't worry!  I raised 2 children of my own, so no behavior shocks or stuns me.  I remember these days so there will be no judgment from me.  

My goal is to deliver images of your child's personality at this moment in time.  It might be a perfectly posed angel, or it might be a mischievous little stinker; regardless, I will pull out all my tricks to capture the beauty and personalty of your child.  

Let's talk soon!