Mamas of Littles: Creating Memories and Not Stress
I’m working on announcing some new mini sessions and session dates, and wanted to pop on here to talk to you moms (and dads)…I am knee-deep in the chaos right now, with two precious, active little guys. I know how challenging it can be to wrangle everyone for a photo session, and how that can seem like just another thing you are adding to your already-full plate! But there are a few ways that you can create memories, instead of stressful moments, and I wanted to share them today:
-Adjust my own expectations. I have found that when I set my own expectations up for a “perfect” day, it often make me resentful or frustrated when things go awry. I have learned to have realistic, open-minded expectations of how long my kiddos can sit still, or smile, or be posed for a photo session. It takes a whole lot of grace and flexibility, and it’s exactly what I offer to my clients. When I approach the day of a shoot of my own family with grace, love, and joy, the day goes much better.
-Set yourself up for success: Nothing makes a day more of a train-wreck than kids who are hungry and tired. I’ve learned that scheduling a session for after nap time, and when everyone has had some protein, is a much better idea. I also pack little snacks (pro tip: don’t pack snacks that have color to them, like ring pops or sticky candies) and even little toys like cars and stickers to help keep their interest up. I also plan a fun dinner or meal after the shoot to look forward to, and don’t lump photos in between multiple other tiring activities. My goal is to associate photo shoots with joy and fun, rather than a tired, grumpy mom/spouse.
-Ask your kids to be involved: Involving your little ones helps them feel included and part of the process. Offer them choices when it comes to wardrobe, like choosing between a few shirts that you like, or asking how they’d like their hair done. These simple things can give them input and help them feel that they have some control. You’d be surprised how much children love being part of the planning process.
If you’ve been putting off a session because you are worried about how your kiddos will do, please go ahead and book. I am happy to help you plan and think through the logistics of babies or pre-schoolers, and how to make your shoot a memorable event (for the right reasons!)