How to Prepare Your Toddler for a Family Photo Session

Tips to Keep the Tears (and the Goldfish crackers) Off Camera

We get it—toddlers are adorable, hilarious, and completely unpredictable. One minute they're giggling, the next they're sobbing because their sock feels “too socky.” When it comes to family photo sessions, that unpredictability can feel a little daunting. But take a deep breath—we’ve been there, and we’ve seen it all.

At J&B Patton Photography, we work with real families (read: imperfect, lovable chaos), and we know how to capture the good stuff—even if it comes with a little goldfish dust and a lot of toddler energy. Here’s how to set yourself—and your little one—up for success on photo day.

1. Timing is Everything

The best time for family photos is not just about light—it’s about mood. We love shooting in soft golden-hour light, but if that falls squarely during your toddler’s cranky hour, we’ll adjust. We can usually find ways to get good light at any time.

We’ll work with your child’s “happy window,” not against it. Great light is wonderful, but a meltdown in pretty light is still… a meltdown.

2. Keep the Wardrobe Comfortable & Familiar

Photo day is not the time to try out a stiff collar or brand-new shoes. If it’s itchy, tight, or fussy, your toddler will let you (and us) know loud and clear.

Stick to soft, well-loved clothing in colors that coordinate with the rest of the family. Avoid loud graphics, logos and cartoon characters—unless that’s your vibe—and always bring a backup outfit. Spills happen. Mud happens. Life happens.

Bonus tip: Let your toddler “help choose” from a few options you’ve pre-selected. They’ll feel proud, and that confidence shows up in the photos.

3. Snacks, Bribes, and Breaks

We're not above a well-timed snack or sticker bribe. Pack quiet, non-messy snacks like Cheerios or mini rice cakes—nothing sticky or melty. A favorite sippy cup of water is also a smart move.

Have a reward plan for after the session. “If we smile for photos, we’ll stop at the playground!” works better than any camera trick. And if they need a break during the session, we’ll roll with it. Sometimes the best photos happen when no one’s looking.

4. Make It a Game

We love turning your session into playtime. “Can you roar like a lion?” “Show me your best puppy face!” These games help toddlers forget the camera is even there.

If there’s a toy or stuffed animal your child loves, bring it along—ideally one you don’t mind seeing in a few shots. We’ll incorporate it in a fun way or keep it just out of frame for giggle prompts.

We use simple games, gentle direction, and lots of patience to coax out genuine joy.

5. Set Expectations—But Keep Them Light

Tell your toddler they’re going to have fun—not that they have to behave or perform. The goal is connection and comfort, not perfection.

Skip the “You have to smile!” pressure. That usually backfires. Instead, keep it breezy. Let your kiddo warm up to us naturally—we’re really good at meeting them at their pace.

6. Trust Your Photographer (That’s Us)

We’ve got years of experience photographing wild cards under three feet tall. We’re fast, flexible, and not thrown off by a sudden tantrum or sprint toward a mud puddle.

We’ll get the photo. Actually, we’ll get lots of them. And sometimes the best ones are of your child being their real, unfiltered self—those are the memories worth keeping.

You’ve Got This

A little planning makes a big difference, and your toddler doesn’t have to be on their “best behavior” to get great photos. Toddlers are meant to be a little wild—we’ll embrace it.

Ready to book a family session that’s fun, flexible, and totally toddler-friendly?

[Click here to schedule your shoot with J&B Patton Photography.]