Take better photos of toddlers without the frustration!

Before I really pursued my photography, I was a mom with a camera who snapped many photos of her child without a care in the world. I understand how frustrating it can be to try and get “that shot” with a wiggly and sometimes downright uncooperative child. Sometimes you have to let go and just capture your child’s true personality; which I personally believe will be appreciated much more down the line. Below are a few tips to take better photos of toddlers without the frustration.

1. Don’t force it – Forcing your child to do anything instantly puts them in a bad mood. I used to get to frustrated and upset, which put everyone in a bad mood. If your child likes to move, move with them. If it doesn’t seem like they are going to cooperate, maybe it may be time for a snack, nap or both! I know when I am hungry or tired, I am not a happy camper and children will have no problem showing you. Take a break and make another attempt after a full belly or nap time.

2. Make it fun – As the saying goes “time flies when you’re having fun”. This is true for anything and more importantly, it makes it easier on your children. If they have fun snuggling with their favorite books, encourage them to lay in a well-lit area with them. If they enjoy helping in the kitchen, have them mix batter in a bowl while you snap away. Doing this allows you to capture genuine expressions and your child is less likely to care about your snapping their photos.

3. Go outside – I find that it is easier to photograph my little guy outdoors. He loves to run, ride his bike and play hide and go seek. If the weather outside is to your liking, then get out! Encourage your child to pick flowers, find rocks or jump in puddles! Their curious little mind will wander and you will be just a few steps behind capturing them as their precious expressions.

4. Make them laugh (even at your expense) – Nothing is more precious that a child’s laughter. Hearing my little guy giggle and squeal is like music to my ears; it makes my heart flutter and never gets old. Capturing your child laughing is capturing a genuine expression and who wouldn’t want that up on their wall?! Make silly sounds, do a silly dance or fake an injury (kids always think that is funny).

5. Nap time – Some of my favorite photos I have captured of my son were of him sleeping. Being a parent can be frustrating at time, I admit it. But when you see your child sleeping peacefully, nothing else matters. You don’t have to be creative for this one, just capture them as they are.

I hope you enjoyed what I had to write. Please let me know if any of these tips helped in photographing your toddler or feel free to share your tips.

Thanks for reading!

With love,

-Al