Childhood goes by so fast! As a mom myself, I am trying to hold on to it as long as I can. Taking photos is my favorite way to preserve each milestone, each funny moment, and each child’s individual personality. That’s why I encourage all of you to book at least one photo session each year of your child’s life. When the time has come to capture your toddler’s chubby cheeks, your first grader’s missing front teeth, or your preteen’s new fashion sense, it helps to be prepared and know what to expect at your session.
Here are my five tips for child sessions:
- Comfort is key. As much as you want your child to look absolutely perfect for their photo shoot, make sure your child is comfortable in what they are wearing. Being uncomfortable makes people grumpy. It’s no different for children who are still learning how to control their emotions. Pick out a few suitable options and let them choose what they are most comfortable with.
- Food makes everyone happy! Have your child eat right before their session. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks and a water bottle. A case of the hangries is never a good thing! I’m happy to stop shooting for a few minutes and let your child enjoy a little snack.
- Mother Nature is in charge. Sure, wild weather can sometimes make for really cool photos, but wild weather and kids don’t usually mix. If the forecast shows cold temperatures, wind, or rain, I advise my clients to reschedule. I would rather change my schedule around to give you the best experience, than press onward forcing your child to be perfect in less than perfect conditions. I make sure to leave gaps in my schedule for this reason. Finding time to reschedule is rarely difficult.
- Use smart bribery. Kids are greedy little suckers! Bribery works. However, it is important to be smart with bribes. Pulling them out too soon can cause a mess. Pulling too many out at a time can over stimulate a child. A promise of a treat or new toy at the end of the session works like a charm.
- Relax and trust your photographer. If you have hired a professional and experienced photographer (that’s me!), he or she will have many tricks up their sleeve when it comes to working with kids. I’m a mom. I get it. Kids will be kids. I expect nothing less. I have had sessions with difficult kids. Sometimes those sessions turn out to be my absolute favorites. I’m known to have a knack with kids and am able to make them feel comfortable, and pull their personalities out. Sometimes I need a little help from you to get them to relax. Sometimes they work better one-on-one with just me. Either way, put your trust in me and I’ll do my job well.
Now that you know how to prepare for your child’s session, let’s get one scheduled! You’ll be happy to hear that I’ve added a new option to my pricing menu to make preserving milestones more affordable. Child Mini’s are now available for $200. Click here to view pricing details and let’s get your session scheduled!
– Candi
