Let’s be honest — getting a toddler to cooperate for family photos is like trying to reason with a tiny, snack-demanding tornado. Add in a growing baby bump, unpredictable weather, and a partner who’s “not sure what to do with their hands,” and you’ve got all the ingredients for a hilarious, heartwarming, perfectly imperfect maternity session.
And you know what? That’s exactly what makes it beautiful.
If you’re expecting your second (or third… or fourth) baby, your maternity session isn’t just about your bump anymore — it’s about celebrating the family you’ve built so far. So instead of stressing about getting that one perfect “everyone looking at the camera” shot, here’s why I say: let’s treat your maternity session with a toddler like a natural family photoshoot.
Toddlers Are the Main Characters — and That’s Okay
Your toddler doesn’t care about my camera. They care about snacks, sticks, and possibly running away at top speed. But that’s actually perfect. When we let toddlers lead the session a bit — explore, play, or show off their “big sibling” energy — we capture genuine connection instead of forced smiles.
Some of the best photos happen in between the “posed” moments — when your toddler is climbing onto your lap, giving your belly a curious pat, or hiding behind Dad’s legs. It’s pure, unfiltered family life, and those moments always end up being favorites.
Lower Expectations, Raise the Fun
Here’s a secret: the more you try to control your toddler during photos, the less fun everyone has (and the less natural it feels). The key to a successful maternity session with little kids is to let go of “perfect” and lean into “real.”
We’ll play games, run around, tell jokes, and let your toddler’s personality shine. If they need a snack break or want to show me every rock in the park — great. That’s part of the story.
You’re Not Just Taking Maternity Photos — You’re Documenting a Transition
These photos are about more than your bump. They’re about capturing your family as it is right now, before everything changes again. Your toddler might not fully understand what’s coming, but their curiosity, excitement, and occasional chaos make the story so much richer.
Years from now, when you look back at these images, you won’t just see your pregnancy — you’ll see the love, laughter, and wild toddler energy that defined this chapter of your life.
Let’s Keep It Comfortable and Authentic
If we’re outdoors, I’ll encourage movement — walking, cuddling, tickling, tossing your toddler in the air (carefully, of course). If we’re in the studio, I’ll create a calm, cozy space with room for play. Either way, the goal is to capture natural connection, not stiff poses. Think of it as a family hangout where I just happen to have a camera.
Embrace the Chaos (and Maybe Bring Snacks)
If there’s one thing I’ve learned photographing families, it’s this: toddlers run the show. And honestly? That’s part of the magic. Embrace the silliness, laugh through the chaos, and trust that we’ll capture something real and beautiful in the middle of it all.
Ready to plan your maternity session with your wild, wonderful toddler?
Let’s create photos that feel like you — joyful, chaotic, heartfelt, and full of personality. Because real life (and real love) always photographs best.
