Bringing home your new little one is a big deal for the whole family; Mom, Dad & siblings. I love when big brother and/or sister are a part of the in-home newborn session. Getting to see the bond between baby and their older siblings is so special! That being said, I completely understand that getting a toddler to sit and smile for pictures definitely can come with it’s own set of challenges- trust me, I have two of my own!

So here are some tips I recommend to help your session go a little more smoother, because I promise you, the pictures that are captured are absolutely worth it!

1.First and foremost, don’t worry!! Kids are going to be kids and the beauty of in-home, lifestyle sessions are that everyone can be comfortable in their own element. (Personally I always make sure to snap some great family shots in the very beginning while toddlers are still fresh and then let them pop in and out as we go)

2.Have some snacks ready. They usually work up an appetite just like their new little siblings will. You have to feed the models!

3.Whenever possible, have a friend or family member available to take breaks with big brother or sister. That way Mom & Dad can continue taking pictures with baby without feeling distracted.

4.I always have little toys (neutral colored toys so they aren’t distracting to your photos) for kids to play with. It keeps toddlers entertained and can create some very sweet playful moments, letting kids be kids.

Take a breath and enjoy these little moments. As your photographer it is my goal make your session as stress free as possible and capture all the emotion and connection between you and your loved ones, through beautiful images.