Survival Guide: Toddlers in the Studio

If you are currently prepping for a newborn session and you also happen to have a two-year-old at home, I want you to take a deep, cleansing breath. Go ahead. Inhale the scent of that brewing coffee, exhale the stress of the impending wardrobe struggle.

I know exactly what you’re thinking. You’ve spent weeks dreaming of those serene, sleepy newborn portraits—the kind where the studio is quiet, the light is soft, and your oldest child gently kisses the baby’s forehead like a Renaissance painting. Then, reality hits. Your toddler decides that today is the day they will only eat orange crackers, refuses to wear anything but their “dinosaur shoes,” and has developed a sudden, passionate protest against sitting still for more than four seconds.

As a Boston newborn and family photographer, I’ve seen it all. I’ve been tackled by three-year-olds, I’ve had my studio floor covered in Cheerios, and I’ve seen some world-class meltdowns. And I have a secret to tell you: It is totally okay.

In fact, it’s more than okay. It’s life. 

Here is my “Survival Guide” for navigating the beautiful chaos of a toddler during a newborn session, with a few tips to help you keep your sanity intact.

1. The “Big Sibling” Transition is Real

First, let’s offer some grace. Your toddler’s entire world has just shifted. They went from being the center of the universe to sharing the spotlight with a tiny human who sleeps, cries, and takes up a lot of Mommy’s lap space. A photography studio is a new, strange place with big lights and a lady with a clicking box and a bunch of lights. It’s a lot!

If they have a meltdown, please don’t feel embarrassed. In my Boston photography studio, a tantrum isn’t a “failed session”—it’s just a 10-minute break. I always schedule plenty of time. We aren’t on a factory assembly line; we are capturing a family.

2. Lower the Stakes (and the Pressure)

Toddlers are like tiny emotional barometers. They can smell “Important Photo Day” stress from a mile away. If you arrive at the studio feeling tense, they will likely match that energy.

The best thing you can do? Act like this is just a fun playdate. If they won’t sit perfectly, we move. If they won’t smile, we play “I’m going to catch you.” Some of the most cherished images I’ve ever captured for Boston families weren’t the ones where everyone was looking at the camera—they were the ones where Dad was playing with big brother or sister while Mom snuggled the newborn.

3. The Power of “High-Value” Bribes

This is a judgment-free zone. I am a firm believer in the power of a “high-value” bribe. However, a pro-tip from your photographer: Avoid chocolate, colorful juices, or anything that stains the face and teeth!

• The Good Stuff: Sweet cereals, Goldfish, or plain crackers (I share more of what to bring for your newborn studio session here!).
• The Secret Weapon: If things get really hairy, have a favorite song queued up on your phone. I’ve been known to have a dance party in the middle of a newborn session if it means getting that one elusive sibling shot.

4. Let Me Be the “Bad” Guy (Or the Best Friend)

One of the biggest perks of hiring a professional family photographer is that you don’t have to be the director. When parents spend the whole session saying “Sit still!” or “Smile for the lady!”, the toddler usually digs their heels in.

Instead, let me take the lead. I have a whole bag of tricks to get their attention. I might make silly noises, hide behind my camera, or ask them to help me “check” on the baby. Your only job is to look at your kids with love. I’ll handle the rest.

5. We Lead with the Sibling Shots

In my studio, we almost always handle the sibling and family portions of the newborn session first. Why? Because toddlers have a “cooperation window” that is roughly the size of a postage stamp.

We get those shots while their outfits are still clean and their interest is high. Once we’ve captured a few gems of them with the baby, we let them “retire.” Your partner can take them for a walk around the block, or they can hang out in the lounge area with a snack (or enjoy some tablet time) while we focus on those quiet, peaceful solo shots of the newborn.

6. Embrace the “Unscripted”

Sometimes, the best way to get a toddler to cooperate is to stop asking them to. I love capturing “lifestyle” moments. If your toddler wants to jump on the bed (or the studio posing area), let’s capture the joy! If they want to poke your nose, that’s a memory.

The “chaos” is often where the most genuine connection lives. Years from now, you won’t remember that they cried for five minutes—you’ll remember the way they looked so tiny next to their new best friend.

Why Choose a Specialist?

When you’re looking for a maternity or newborn photographer in Boston, you want someone who isn’t just good with a camera, but someone who is “toddler-whisperer” adjacent. You want someone who understands that a newborn session isn’t just about the baby—it’s about the whole family’s transition.

I pride myself on creating a calm, patient environment where moms can relax. If the toddler needs a minute, we give them a minute. If the baby needs to nurse, we wait. There is no rushing here—just beautiful, honest storytelling.

Let’s Make Some Magic (and Survive the Chaos)

So, if you’re worried about booking your session because your toddler is in a “spirited” phase, please don’t be. Your family is perfect exactly as it is right now, dinosaur shoes and all.

Are you ready to document this wild, beautiful season? 

Whether you’re looking for a Boston newborn photographer or want to plan a full family session, I am here to help you navigate the chaos and come out the other side with portraits you’ll treasure forever.Check out my Newborn Services then get in touch with me so we can book your session – I promise, we’ve got this!