Tips and Tricks for Preparing Your Child for Their Portrait Session

Preparing your child for a portrait session can be a joyful and stress-free experience, leading to stunning heirloom portraits you will cherish for years. Here are some simple tips and tricks to ensure your child feels comfortable and relaxed, resulting in natural and beautiful photographs.

1. Schedule the Session Wisely Timing is everything when it comes to photographing children. Schedule the session during a time when your child is typically active and happy, such as their usual playtime. Avoid times that are too close to snack or nap time, as hunger and tiredness can lead to crankiness and lack of cooperation. A well-rested and well-fed child is more likely to be in a good mood, making the session smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

2. Stay Relaxed and Positive Children are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on the emotions of those around them. If you are stressed or anxious, they will likely sense it and feel pressured to perform. Instead, stay relaxed and positive. Encourage your child to be themselves and trust that their natural smiles and expressions will come out. The more at ease you are, the more comfortable your child will feel. This will allow their true personality to shine through in the photos.

3. Bring Comfort Items Bringing a favorite toy or lovie can provide a sense of security and comfort for your child during the session. These familiar items can help them feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment. Your child is welcome to hold their toy in their lap, and it can even be included in some of the photos if they wish. Additionally, your child is welcome to sit in your lap which can help them feel safe and comfortable.

4. Plan for Breaks and Snacks Even with the best timing, children can sometimes become tired or hungry during a portrait session. Bring along some healthy snacks and water to keep your child energized and hydrated. Plan for short breaks if needed to give your child a chance to recharge. A few minutes of play or a quick snack can make a big difference in maintaining their energy and cooperation throughout the session.

5. Lean On Me! I will be there to guide you every step of the way! I know how important and meaningful these portraits are to you. My goal is for these portraits to reflect the way you see your child in your mind and heart. I promise we will get “the look”! I thrive on being creative and connecting with your child during a session. Your child will do great, I promise!

By following these tips, you can create a positive and enjoyable portrait session experience for your child. The goal is to capture their genuine expressions and personality, resulting in beautiful heirloom portraits that you will treasure forever. Relax, have fun, and trust in the process – your child’s natural charm will shine through in every photograph.