If you’ve ever worried that your wild, wiggly child won’t sit still for family photos — you’re not alone, and you’re exactly the kind of parent I love working with. As a mama and a family photographer who lives in the world of giggles, snack breaks, and tiny attention spans, I get it — kids are full of energy, and that’s not just okay, it’s beautiful. In fact, those real, unscripted moments are where the magic happens. Here are my top tips to help you prepare for a fun, stress-free, and joy-filled photo session with your energetic little ones.

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Let Go of Perfection

Repeat after me: “We are not aiming for perfect. We are aiming for real.”

The magic happens in the in-between moments — messy hair, crooked smiles, eyes full of sparkle. When you stop stressing about getting that one “Pinterest-perfect” pose and let your kids be themselves, you’ll get photos full of personality and heart. And those are the ones you’ll cherish forever.

Snacks Are Not Bribes… They’re Fuel 

Let’s normalize snack breaks, okay? A hangry toddler (or big kid!) isn’t going to feel camera-ready. Pack some mess-free, non-staining snacks (think: dry cereal, fruit snacks, applesauce pouches) and water. Bonus tip: a tiny treat at the end of the session can be a great little incentive — think of it as their “model payment.”

Trust Your Photographer (That’s Me!)

I’ve done sessions with every type of kid — from shy to wild to full-on tornado energy. I’m not here to make anyone sit still. I’m here to capture your family exactly as you are — joyful chaos and all.

Here is a a trick that I use to get the perfect sibling shot: In this session I asked the boys, show me how much you love your brother! They cuddled up and gave me the perfect shot! 

Keep the Pressure Low

Kids (and grown-ups too!) pick up on stress and tension. If you’re worried, they will be too. So take a deep breath. Remind yourself: this isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection. It’s about real life — your real, beautiful, totally wiggly family.

Cuddle, Tickle, Repeat

The best family shots often come from simple, sweet interactions. So don’t worry about what your face looks like — just love on your people. Hug your babies. Sway with them. Whisper “I love you” into their hair. Those tiny gestures tell a big story in photos.

Set Expectations… Lightly

A quick convo before the shoot helps! Let your kiddos know that you’re going on a fun adventure with a cool friend who has a camera, and that they just need to listen when needed and have fun. No pressure — just good vibes.

At the end of the day, photo sessions with kids are supposed to be playful, relaxed, and even a little wild. That’s the beauty of it. I’m here for the wiggles, the giggles, and the beautiful mess of childhood. So come as you are. I’ve got you. Let’s make some magic.