How to Have a Stress-Free Photo Session with Toddlers (Yes, its possible.)
Surviving Toddler Chaos: Tips from a Myrtle Beach Family Photographer and Fellow Mama
Family photo sessions with toddlers? They can feel like herding cats in a tornado As a Myrtle Beach family photographer and fellow mama of TWO wild toddlers, I’ve learned that the secret to a stress-free session isn’t about perfectly posed pictures—it’s about rolling with the chaos and embracing the moments (and the tantrums). So, here are my top tips for making your family photo session as fun (and stress-free) as possible!
1. Plan Ahead
Once your session is booked, it’s time to start thinking about outfits. This isn’t about looking like you’re stepping onto the red carpet (unless that’s your thing, no judgment here). It’s all about comfort! For you, think flowy dresses that make you feel fabulous but also allow you to bend, squat, and scoop up your little one without feeling like you’re trying to fold yourself into a pretzel. A dress that moves in the breeze? Yes, please! For the kiddos, pick something cute but comfy—something that lets them run around and play without staging a rebellion. For girls, a dress that twirls is a total win (and a great distraction for 2 minutes while I snap a photo). For boys, a nice shirt or sweater keeps them looking sharp but still comfy enough to climb a jungle gym (because that’s where the true “family bonding” happens).
2. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Let’s be honest: toddlers don’t have the same “sit still and smile” agenda as we do. They might be more interested in climbing a tree, eating their shirt, or seeing how far they can run before you panic. That’s okay! The goal here isn’t perfection—it’s capturing the real moments. So, when things don’t go according to plan, just smile and nod (because if you laugh, your toddler will probably stop what they’re doing and stare at you like you’ve lost your mind). Take a deep breath, and roll with it. Some of the best shots come from the chaos!
3. Practice and Chat It Out
Before the big day, talk to your kids about what’s coming up. Keep it light and fun—this isn’t a “sit still and smile” lecture. You could practice some silly faces, teach your little girl how to twirl like a princess, or even have a “photo practice” session at home. Tell them, “We’re going to make some magic!” and then prepare for the inevitable “But I don’t want to!” (because toddlers love to keep us on our toes). A great trick is to choose a location with a playground nearby and end the session there. Trust me, the promise of some swings and slides will keep everyone motivated! Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet or Riverwalk in Conway are great for this! So go ahead—bribe them with swings. I won’t tell anyone.
4. Stay Calm and Enjoy the Moment
On the big day, try to stay chill. I know it’s easier said than done when your toddler has just discovered the magic of running away from you, but take a deep breath. These photos are capturing this stage of life—so just enjoy the time with your family! Don’t stress if your little one isn’t smiling on cue, or if they end up eating sand instead of posing. Remember, the best moments are often the unplanned ones. Sometimes the best “family portrait” looks more like your child running toward the camera with a half-eaten cookie in hand and a look of pure joy on their face. Trust me, that’s the real family vibe.
5. Take Breaks When You Need Them
Toddlers have a lot of energy, but they also get tired—like, 30 minutes into the session, tired. If your little one is starting to melt down, no worries—take a breather. Step aside, give them a hug, and let them recharge for a minute (or five). I promise I’ll catch the tender, real moments too. Sometimes the most beautiful shots come from those quiet, loving moments when everyone just needs to take a timeout. Plus, when you’re not trying to force the perfect shot, your toddler’s smile will look way more authentic. Unless they’re “smiling” because they’re about to do a cannonball in the sand. You know, just another Tuesday.
6. Let Them Have Fun
Kids are full of energy, and trying to force them to sit still for a photo rarely works out. Instead, let them run, jump, spin, and do their thing! Those natural, playful moments will lead to genuine smiles and real connections that make the photos so special. Plus, watching your kids have fun will make the session feel like a breeze. Let them be themselves—the more fun they’re having, the better the photos will turn out! And if they start running in the opposite direction while you chase them screaming “Come back!”—well, that’s just the price of admission.
7. Embrace the Chaos
Perfection is overrated, especially with toddlers in the picture. Some of the best shots are the ones that capture the chaos and love of the moment. Whether it’s a messy smile, a mid-laugh expression, or a sibling hug that looks more like a WWE wrestling move, those are the moments that will make you smile every time you look at your photos. So let go of the pressure for everything to be "perfect." The real magic happens when you just roll with it. If there’s dirt involved, even better. Toddlers don’t know what clean clothes are anyway.
So...
Family photos with kids don’t have to be stressful—they can be a total blast if you go in with the right mindset. Focus on the fun, enjoy the little moments, and remember that these pictures are all about capturing your family’s love, quirks, and personality. Let the kids play, take breaks when needed, and keep things lighthearted. I’ll be there to catch all the beautiful chaos—and in the end, you’ll have photos that’ll make you smile for years to come. When you look over at me, I’ll be grinning the whole time because it reminds me that I am not alone in this crazy toddler era.
So take a deep breath, relax, and let’s do it.
Atalaya Castle, Huntington Beach State Park in South Carolina