Family Photoshoots with Young Kids – My Approach

by your favourite friendly Edson Alberta Family Photographer…

Family Photo with young daughter petting the family dog and laughing

Family sessions with little ones are beautifully unpredictable. Being a family photographer means going with the flow and knowing that every family is different. I know firsthand that when toddlers are involved, anything can happen—muddy knees, snack breaks, spontaneous giggle fits, and maybe even a meltdown or two. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

My “Must Have” Photos for Family Photoshoots with Young Kids

Let’s start with the “must-have” shots. The first thing I usually make sure I get, is a smiley photo of the whole family. I try to do this at the beginning of your shoot, juuuust in case the weather changes on us or the kids decide they are done with photos. I always focus on getting a photo of each of your kids by themselves, and also one of all of them together if possible! Another photo I try to ALWAYS take is Mom + Dad without the kids! You two are the reason your family exists after all! I’ve even been known to hold baby while also still taking these photos because nothing is stopping Mom + Dad from getting their cute photos too! After that, I always aim to capture a mix of candid and sweet in-between moments: tiny hands holding yours, messy hugs, big belly laughs, and those quick glances kids give when they think no one’s watching. The real magic happens in the moments you don’t pose for.

Outfits for Family Photoshoots with Young Kids

Now, let’s talk outfits! The best advice I can give is: coordinate, don’t match. Think earth tones, comfy layers, and textures that feel like you. Avoid big logos and neon brights, and maybe bring an extra outfit just in case of a juice box incident. I’m happy to help plan your outfits ahead of time if you’re feeling stuck—styling is part of the fun! Take a peek at my Outfit Inspiration Pinterest Board HERE if you are needing any ideas for your photoshoot!

How I manage dirty faces and stains for Family Photoshoots with Young Kids

Worried about dirt on their faces or grass stains on jeans? Don’t be. My personal opinion is that the little imperfections actually make your photos more real and a lot of the times I will keep dirty knees or grass stains if they add to the story of your photos. If that isn’t your style, just give me a heads up and I will edit these out for you if you would prefer! I will absolutely edit out anything distracting (like runny noses or that weird sticker someone insisted on wearing), while keeping the genuine charm intact. And yes, I do send the silly photos too—because those wild, scrunchy-nose, mid-roar snapshots often end up being everyone’s favourite.

candid photo of mother and son on the beach

mother and daughter photo with dirt on knee

What if they cry?

What if they cry? We roll with it. I’m patient, and I follow their lead. I find that the best way to capture kids authentically is to let them lead the session instead of forcing them to do the “picture perfect” moments. Sometimes all it takes is a moment of calm, a game of peekaboo, or a snuggle with mom to reset the vibe. Kids are wonderfully themselves, and that’s exactly what I want to capture. And what if they don’t stop crying? To be completely blunt, I will still take photos of them crying. Maybe this is a controversial topic but when they are in their toddler age, crying is just another part of their personality and your life as a family! I know that everyone wants that picture perfect smiling photo, but I think the crying photos are just as important. I always like to think of the kids I take photos of growing up and one day looking back at these family photos and laughing about how they would not stop crying. I know personally I love looking back at photos of myself as a baby screaming and crying, it’s just a part of being the age they are!