Let me say this right at the start: toddlers are my absolute favorite little humans to photograph. I know that might surprise some parents who are currently sweating over whether their two-year-old is going to cooperate, refuse to smile, or spend the entire session saying “no” to everything. And honestly? All of that might happen — and the photos will still be incredible. As a Denver family photographer who works with toddlers all the time, I want to share my best tips for preparing your toddler for a family photo session so everyone can show up feeling calm, ready, and excited.
Talk It Up In The Days Before
Toddlers respond really well to anticipation when it’s framed positively. In the days leading up to your session, talk about it like it’s something fun to look forward to. “We’re going to go take some special family pictures and then maybe get ice cream after!” works so much better than “Please be good at photos.” Keep the language light, excited, and pressure-free.
Time It Around Their Best Hours
If your toddler is a disaster before their nap, don’t book an early morning session. If they’re at their best after lunch, that’s your window. I always tell families to think about when their child is naturally at their happiest and most cooperative — and to try to schedule accordingly. A well-rested, recently-fed toddler is a completely different creature than a tired, hungry one! For most families, 10 am is a sweet spot of happiness and cooperation, so if you’re not sure, I’ll typically recommend that my studio sessions begin at that time.
Skip the Big Expectations Conversation
The worst thing you can do before a session is sit your toddler down and explain all the ways they need to behave. “You have to smile!” and “Please don’t run away!” are basically invitations for exactly that behavior. Instead, just frame the whole thing as fun and leave performance expectations out entirely.
Let Them Be In Charge of Something Small
Toddlers love to feel like they have some control. Let them choose which shoes to wear with their outfit, or ask them if they want to hold a pinecone or a flower during the outdoor session. These tiny choices give them a sense of ownership and can make a big difference in how they engage.
Bring a Comfort Item or Favorite Snack
I am 100% in favor of bribery — the loving kind! A favorite snack, a stuffed animal, or a little treat waiting at the end of the session can be a wonderful motivator. And bringing a comfort item gives your toddler something familiar to hold onto in a new environment.
Trust Your Photographer
When you work with someone who genuinely loves and understands toddlers, the session takes care of itself. I’m not looking for perfect smiles and perfect stillness — I’m looking for real moments. The giggling, the running, the hiding behind mom’s leg — those are the images families treasure most. Come ready to have fun, and let me handle the rest!
Ready to book your toddler’s family session? Send me a message and let’s make some beautiful memories together.
