Imagine this…
At six months old, your baby is all smiles. Maybe they’ve got that adorable little bottom tooth showing, and every photo melts your heart. Years later, those portraits are still some of your favorites.
Then comes their first birthday. We celebrate with a cake smash, and everyone can’t stop talking about those big grins and frosting-covered fingers. Maybe they’re even taking their first steps.
Then year two rolls around.
And suddenly…
They’re running in the opposite direction.
Welcome to toddlerhood.
If you’ve ever wondered why your once-camera-loving baby suddenly refuses to sit still, you’re not alone. As a Phoenix family photographer, I hear parents say all the time, “They’ve always taken such great pictures!”
I know.
But this stage is different.
Toddlers aren’t trying to make your session difficult. They’re curious, independent, and determined to explore absolutely everything around them. That’s exactly what they’re supposed to do.
The good news? It’s completely normal. And honestly, some of my favorite family photos come from embracing the chaos instead of fighting it.
Tip #1: Don’t Schedule Birthday Photos and Family Photos on the Same Day
If you’re celebrating a birthday, try not to combine everything into one long session.
Toddlers have a limited attention span, and asking them to smile for family portraits and then stick around for individual birthday photos is a lot.
Splitting the sessions gives everyone a better experience and usually results in better photographs.
Tip #2: Timing Is Everything
This one probably isn’t a surprise.
Don’t schedule your session during nap time.
An overtired toddler is rarely excited about taking pictures. When possible, choose a time when they’re well-rested, have had a snack, and are ready to play.
Tip #3: Cut the Cheese
Yes…I said it.
Please don’t spend the entire session begging your toddler to smile.
Honestly, it usually doesn’t work.
Instead, let them play.
At this age, there really isn’t much traditional posing. My sessions revolve around your child instead of expecting your child to revolve around me.
Sometimes we’re chasing bubbles.
Sometimes we’re running through the grass.
Sometimes we’re picking up rocks that are apparently the greatest treasure ever discovered.
Those little moments are what make toddler photos so special.
So instead of expecting perfect smiles in every image, expect to capture your child’s real personality. Years from now, you’ll be glad you did.
Tip #4: Be Ready to Join the Fun
Parents, you’re part of my team.
Sometimes I need you tossing your little one in the air, chasing them, making silly noises, or simply playing together.
The best toddler photos often happen when everyone stops worrying about the camera and starts interacting with each other.
Tip #5: Keep the Outfit Comfortable
You don’t need fancy clothes.
In fact, I’d rather your toddler be comfortable enough to run, sit, climb, and explore.
Simple outfits photograph beautifully, and if they get a little dirty along the way…that’s okay.
They’re toddlers.
That’s kind of their job.
Tip #6: Bribes Are Welcome
Ice cream.
Fruit snacks.
One gummy bear.
Whatever works.
Photographers hear parents promise treats after the session all the time, and trust me, there is absolutely no judgment here.
Sometimes a little motivation goes a long way.
The Bottom Line
The biggest thing I tell every family is this:
Don’t expect your toddler to act like an adult.
Expect them to be curious.
Expect them to run.
Expect them to explore.
And expect me to chase them.
Because that’s exactly how we capture genuine smiles, authentic moments, and photographs that actually look like this season of your family’s life.
Honestly, I’d much rather photograph a happy toddler running through a field than one sitting perfectly still with a forced smile.
