Terrible or terrific? Let's be honest, it's a little of both. One minute your two year old is pulling everything out of the bottom dresser drawers, the next minute they are asleep on the clothing pile looking like an angel on that crumpled white bed sheet they dragged out. When it's time to get their pictures taken will they hold still for that long? Will they be happy and smiley, or throwing the worst temper tantrum because of, well do we even know what sets them off? Two year olds are the hardest age to photograph. That's ok though, because we have some great tips.

Naptime is key!

Two year olds are most content when they are well rested. Consider booking their photoshoot for soon after they wake up in the morning or shortly after naptime. Do everything you possibly can to make sure they get their nap on picture day. Plan ahead for this special day. Don't do any errands, turn off the phone, have a chill day, do whatever it takes to get them rested. 

Make sure they are fed.

Can anyone be happy if they are hangry? Hungry can equal angry. Don't feed them in their pretty picture outfit though. Consider putting on their picture outfit shortly before you get them in the car. Then bring some goldfish crackers or something that's not messy in case they need a quick snack. Don't feed them sugar if it makes them more hyper.

Bring a snack or treat they love.

Fruit snacks work wonders and are not too messy. You might want to bring some to your photo session for a special incentive to get your toddler to hold still. Or perhaps a different favorite non messy snack. Especially something that they haven't had for a few days and makes them happy.

Don't expect perfection.

Most two year olds will not look at a camera and smile on demand. They most likely will respond to little games like clapping or dancing to music, or looking at the toy I play hide and seek with behind my head. They also may need a few breaks during the session to move around rather than sitting in front of the backdrop. They may not smile directly at the camera at all. Try to manage your expectations because we will get some great pictures, even if they running away from the setup. When you are relaxed your two year old is more relaxed. Try to be a little flexible and your session will be great!

Consider choosing an interactive backdrop/scene.

Two year olds love to play, not sit. When they have some props to hold it also holds their attention better and can keep them in place for longer. Backdrops like construction vehicles, dinosaurs, teddy bears, ice cream, and most others have items your child can play with. We can also give them directions like "can you put the eggs in the basket?" or "show me how you give teddy a hug." When two year olds are engaged they have a pleasant expression and we can get them to look up at the camera occassionaly for some great shots. If you allow it, we might also hide some little treats or crackers in their pocket for them to pull out. We've got some tricks like that, to get them to look up. I also have prizes of course. So no worries, it will be great.