Portland Maternity Session with an under 2 years old child
It has been over 10 years we’ve been photographing maternity and newborn pictures in Portland. Many repeat clients come to our studio, and we are very thankful and love seeing their families’ grow! It seems like parents feel that planning a successful maternity session with a child, who has yet to become 2 years old, is hard to plan. They cannot express or tell their feelings well yet. Also they have very short time to enjoy and be in a good mood.
It may not be easy, since we cannot expect how they act, but I actually enjoy seeing them getting used to me and being photographed.
I believe that planning helps to have a successful Portland maternity session with a toddler.
Tips for a Successful Portland Maternity Session with Your Little One Under 2 Years Old
Expecting a baby is such an exciting time, and a maternity photo session is a beautiful way to capture this special moment in your life. When you’re already a parent to a little one under the age of 2, it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan a session, especially when you want to make sure your toddler is involved and feels comfortable.
As a maternity and newborn photographer here in Portland, Oregon, I’ve had the privilege of working with many families like yours. I’ve gathered some helpful tips that will ensure your maternity session goes smoothly, even with a curious toddler in tow. Here’s how you can prepare for a successful photo shoot while making the most of the experience!
1. Choose Your Kid's Happy Time to Have Your Maternity Session
It is a maternity session, but I usually focus on the kid’s happy time to decide when to start the session. Because happy kids make parents smile and be happier. It sounds very easy. However, when people plan out a maternity session, they focus on what to wear, when to start make-up and where to take pictures more than when to start the session. That works for a maternity session without kids, but with kids under 2 years old, we should plan to have maternity session when they are in a good mood. Usually, we have those sessions in the morning or early afternoon before or after their nap time.
For some of those who would like to have a beauty maternity session, we can focus on YOU and the beauty of your maternity. In that case, husband and your kids will just join in on a couple photos.
2.Keep It Short and Sweet
Kids who are under 2 years old have short attention spans, so we try to capture them in a shorter session — usually around an hour verses the usual 1.5 hours. They can only focus for 5 minutes or so at a time during that age, so we always try to get some attention with playing.
Here is an example of toddler’s attention span.
We focus on capturing the moments that tells the story of the maternity time most. Sometimes, the best images come when you’re simply enjoying each other’s company, so let the session flow naturally. Like the picture in the middle, I asked the boy to join the parents. He said NO! My job is often denied by toddlers. Haha…Until they get warmed up, I wait and encourage them to join, but do not force them to join. I also ask parents to keep focusing on the session. (Mike will watch over them while we are photographing.) Most kids would like to do what parents are doing, so we can try directing them in that way!
3.Expect the Unexpected
When working with toddlers, it’s important to keep expectations flexible. We ask our clients to not get disappointed even if your kids aren’t acting like you hoped at first. Most kids get warmed up and begin being interested at some point. Taking time and letting them see how parents are enjoying at the session make kids more comfortable. Please do not feel bad for us either. They might get cranky, distracted, or just not want to participate, and that’s okay! These moments are part of their personality, and capturing the raw, honest moments is what makes the photos meaningful too.
We’ll work together to go with the flow, and I’ll make sure to get those timeless family shots no matter what happens. The most important thing is that you’re enjoying the experience as a family.
4.Relax and Enjoy the Moment
Lastly, remember that this is a celebration of you and your family. It’s normal to feel a little nervous or anxious, especially with a little one. However, the best photos come when you are relaxed and present in the moment. Your toddler may not always cooperate perfectly, and that’s perfectly fine. What’s important is that you are creating memories of this beautiful chapter of your life, and those will last forever.
Having a Portland maternity session with an under 2 years old child doesn’t have to be stressful. With good planning, preparation, and flexibility, we can create wonderful memories and capture stunning photos that you and your family will cherish for years to come. Your session will reflect the love and excitement that is growing in your family.
I’m here to help make your maternity session as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. Let’s capture your family’s beautiful journey together!