Congratulations! You’ve added a precious new family member, so why not capture this important moment in your lives with updated photographs? One of the best things about newborn photos is that they’re also an opportunity to get fresh shots of the whole family. But if your family includes older siblings who happen to be toddlers, a photo session might pose certain challenges for parents seeking cooperation.
Here are some tips on how to include older siblings in your newborn shoot.
Manage Expectations
Whatever you may have planned for your photo session, be prepared to throw it away and follow your toddler’s lead. Children of any age, even newborns, can sense stress, so go into this experience preparing yourself to remain calm and stay flexible. Be okay with your children being themselves. An experienced photographer will know how to work with young children and let them lead the session.
Talk To Them Beforehand
Preparation is key here, so make sure to let your older children know what to expect. Even if they love being in front of the camera, not being surprised will go a long way toward making them feel more comfortable during the photo session. Tell them the photographer’s name (as opposed to “photographer lady”). Note: this is probably a conversation you should have more than once.
Another idea is to do a little photography pretend play the week before the shoot. This will get your older child used to the idea and assume that the actual session is fun playtime. With a little forethought, you may find they’re actually excited to participate, resulting in relaxed, happy photos with everyone at their best.
Don’t Schedule a Photo Shoot Around Nap Time (and Never Let Them Nap in the Car)
The first part of this advice is pretty obvious, as most parents know not to schedule anything around naptime. The second part, however, could be critical to keeping disaster at bay. Unlike babies, toddlers usually need time to wake up and adjust to their surroundings. Yanking a sleeping toddler from a car directly into a photo shoot will probably not end well.
Take Time to Involve Older Siblings in the Photo Session
A newly minted big brother or sister still might not be used to having a new baby around. By their very nature, newborns are focus pullers and their brothers and sisters might feel like their parents aren’t paying as much attention to them. Your newborn photo session is a great way to let older siblings know that it’s not all about the new sibling, but just as much about your growth as a family.
Encourage Them to Snuggle with Their New Sibling
A photo session can be a great way to help older siblings loosen up and get to know the newest addition to the family. Encourage them to gently touch the newborn and get close.
Let Them Do Their Own Thing
Rather than forcing your older child to participate in the photo session, encourage them to have fun with it. The last thing you need is a tantrum followed by a sour face in your family photos. Older siblings may surprise you by enjoying getting to be involved on their own. As with anything to do with toddlers, giving them space to explore and relax usually has the best outcome.
How to Handle Bribes
Bribes are a common tactic parents use during photo sessions, but don’t pull them out too early or the whole thing could backfire. You don’t want a situation where your toddler will only sit still if given candy. No one wants photos featuring chocolate-stained mouths and outstretched hands. (Bonus tip: don’t bring messy treats and choose a snack that can be concealed if your child insists on having it in the photo). Children are far more likely to listen to someone other than their parents, so put the bribes in the hands of the photographer. She’ll know the best time to bring out a favorite treat and when to reward your child for listening or taking a good picture.
Make Time for Breaks
Your newborn won’t be the only family member who needs breaks. Bring snacks and give older siblings some time away from the camera to play for a little while. Sometimes it’s best to photograph the older sibling first, so boredom doesn’t set in as the session goes on. Hopefully these tips will help to make your newborn photo shoot with the family a happy occasion. Looking for a newborn photographer in the Austin, TX area? Cynthia Hamilton Photography’s high quality work has resulted in many delighted clients. Click here for more information and to book a session.