But My Kids are Feral!

Haha—I’m kidding, but I get it. I have two energetic boys, and while they are in elementary school now, I remember the days of struggling to get them to stop for a millisecond and look at the camera (instead of running after squirrels, clouds, flowers, puddles, puppies, etc.).

As a seasoned mom, I’ve dealt with my fair share of meltdowns. It happens! It’s hard learning to be a whole human! And as a photographer who has worked with countless young families, I can’t tell you how many times I have heard “I’m so sorry - they won’t sit still!” or “They’re being so wild today!”

But here’s the truth: I expect it. I plan for it. And honestly, I love it.

Photoshoots with kids, especially toddlers, are meant to capture who they really are, not just the perfectly posed smiles (though I’ll try my darnedest for those, too!). When I work with younger kiddos, especially those between the ages of one to three (iykyk), I am expecting them to be distracted and driven by their glorious little motors of curiosity.

So let ‘em run. Let them explore. And though it’s hard, try not to stress if things don’t go how you are expecting. I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve, a fast shutter, and patience galore. All you need to do is show up, relax, and love on your little ones.

Trust me—those “wild” moments* often make the most magical memories and photos you’ll end up cherishing forever!

*But if things really go south and your child is having an exceptionally bad day, it’s okay and we’ll work it out with a reschedule.