Top 10 Tips for Posing Toddlers and Babies | Austin Family Photo Session

Family photo sessions are a wonderful way to freeze time, but when photographing toddlers and young babies, it can feel like you’re running around in circles.

I use these Top 10 Tips below to help with shorter attention spans and very active kids during family photo sessions.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

Pick your session time mindfully. I offer sessions during the “golden hours” — early morning or late afternoon — when the light is soft and flattering. Choose the time that best aligns with your toddler’s and baby’s nap and feeding schedules to get the best moods. 

2. Start with Family Group Shots

I like to start my family sessions with the classic posed family group shot. It’s easiest to start standing with the parents holding the children. I might ask the toddler to yell out something silly like “CHICKEN BUTT” or “DINOSAUR FART” to get some natural smiles. 

3. Encourage Playful Interaction

Toddlers are happiest when they’re allowed to play. I encourage them to scout out their surroundings, smell flowers, or climb a tree. These playful moments make the session more fun for them and less stressful for the parents. 

4. Keep it Simple for Babies

For young babies, focus on poses that showcase their sweetness and connection with family. I also like to make sure to get detail shots that help capture this moment in time. 

5. Make It Fun

Turn the session into a series of games to keep toddlers excited and engaged. We might play peekaboo, pretend to be a flying superhero or hunt for the best rocks or leaves. 

6. Up in the Air = Smiles

If you want natural smiles and giggles, send the kids “up in the air.” They can also be spun in a circle or hung upside down.

7. Embrace their Personalities

Remember, kids are kids! This is the time to let their true quirks and personalities shine in the photos.

8. Be Flexible and Follow Their Lead

Kids have their own timelines, and that’s okay. If a toddler wants to go run off and explore or a baby needs a quick snack, go with the flow. That gives you time to get moments with just the parents alone. 

9. Explore your Surroundings

If you’re at a park, explore that park. We sent leaves floating down the current and threw rocks in the creek at Bull Creek Park. 

10. Keep it Moving with Prompts

Toddlers have short attention spans, so be ready to capture the moment as soon as you tell them the prompt. Keep your instructions simple: “Mom and Dad walk and swing your child”

I find focusing on prompts and games makes more a more successful family photo session that trying to do specific poses with really young kids. 

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