I am absolutely aware that photoshoots with kids are incredibly stress-inducing, but they are also TOTALLY worth it. You know how fast your children change, which is why having photos of them at different stages in life is so important. That being said, I one hundred percent understand how stressful the whole process can be.

Here are some tips to reduce, or dare I say, eliminate stress before and during a photoshoot with your kiddos.

1. Choose your outfits one week prior - yes, one week prior! Hit up consignment stores for accent pieces like vests or fun jackets. H&M and Zara are good places to get the basics. Solid colours are best, and usually, these bigger stores’ seasonal colours are on-trend and in complementary palettes that will work with your whole group.

2. Pick comfortable pieces your kids will actually wear - eliminate the frustration of fighting your toddler to wear something they don’t want to wear, for example, scratchy jeans or structured shirts. Opt for something they will put on their bodies and not flip out in the process of doing so.

3. Bring snacks and treats. Ah yes, snacks and treats, also known as bribes. Very little will get a toddler more motivated than a smarty or lollipop. This may not be for everyone, but, in these special circumstances, it can be very motivating to get your little one to cooperate.

4. Mentally prepare yourself for chaos, lower your expectations, and try not to strive for ‘perfect’. It’s often us, the parents, who put these crazy expectations on ourselves to create something that is perfect. When things don’t go in this direction (honestly, do they ever?), it can cause stress. Kids pick up on this stress and in turn, makes the whole situation tenser than it needs to be.

5. Work with a photographer who knows kids - a photographer who has experience with kids is likely going to be calmer around children. And honestly, we know that kids are always way better for people who aren’t their parents, right?

6. Bring help - it’s always a good idea to have help, whether it’s your spouse or a grandparent. Sometimes it’s an all-hands-on-deck situation where I’m holding the camera making farting jokes, dad is positioning the baby, and mom is trying everything in her power to get the baby to smile. It really is a workout so be prepared to get sweaty.

This isn’t meant to scare you, it’s meant to help prepare you for the wonderful chaos of a family photoshoot with little kids. Lower your expectations for your kids and yourself and we will do just great together!