The Secret to a Successful Portrait Session with Small Children

Kids grow up too fast. Being parents ourselves we know how meaningful it is to have photographs of our children when they are babies and as they get older. A great photograph can be that unexpected spontaneous moment of delight. When in the Art & Clarity studio, our home or yours, we create the opportunity for that to happen by planning. Planning is essential in all aspects when it comes to a successful portrait session with young children.

Photography is the blending of interplay of light, shadows, psychology and technical excellence. We have the science of light and technology covered. We also love children, their joy, temperaments and we encourage the children to be just who they are. They are all different and that is wonderful.

You, as the parent, play a critical part in the success of the session. We look to you to know:

Babies and young children have ‘Union Time’. What does that mean? After a period of time, they deserve a break, some breastfeeding, some cradling. Inside of that time, we can also get great intimate moments with baby and mom, siblings or each parent. A baby may fall asleep after eating and that will give us time to capture a sweet moment. We will plan for clothing changes or different set ups.

Before a shoot, make sure the children are fed and have favorite snacks on hand. Hungry people of all ages may lose patience easily, become grumpy and uncooperative.

While we encourage creativity, styling the clothing of the whole family adds to a coordinated look for your portrait. We recommend no logos, large patterns, and to choose colors that complement each other. Bring along a few choices. It’s especially helpful if the child soils their clothes and is in need of a quick change. This is not a problem and we can move right through it with lightness and humor.

We bring bundles of patience to the session. Children need to feel comfortable and safe. We take the time to know your family and give your children a relaxed environment. That’s why we have an exterior, pesticide free garden studio in which to play. The professional photography session ought to be a fun experience, full of laughter, play and intimate connection among the family group. We allow for break times in between shooting times to keep the energy light and joyous.

Bring favorite blankets, toys, stuffed animals to add to your unique story. For the newborn babies we may put your favorite blanket over your car seat to cradle your infant in a supportive cozy setting. There are many other possibilities, too.

It’s all about the interplay of your family and allowing the time for that to unfold with love and tenderness in all its combinations. The goal is to have meaningful, loving and enduring photographs for you to cherish and give to your family and friends.

We are passionate about capturing the intimate family portraits that are fleeting as our children grow up too quickly and change so rapidly. As we shoot, you will get the opportunity to preview many of the images as they are created. The session is a shared experience. Everyone, even the 5 year old gets to see herself and contribute with another twirl, another story, another roar like a lion, or cuddle like a rabbit.

Take the time to have a professional photography session with Art & Clarity. You will be glad you did. Enjoy these precious images for generations!