So you have chosen a great child photographer, you have scheduled your session and you are excited to see a gorgeous finished product hanging on your wall at home. The hard work is done, right? There are actually a few great tips that can help you ensure your photo session is super successful – and these might be some things you have never thought of before! Whether you are planning a photo session for your baby, child or the whole family, we have some helpful advice from Dallas child portrait artist, Kimberly Wylie.

Newborn Photography Session

•    The Earlier the Better – Most photographers prefer to photograph babies within the first 10 days of life in order to achieve those super-cute poses.

•    To Feed or Not to Feed – Some photographers prefer for you to feed the baby in advance, while others prefer you don’t. Be sure to ask before the session.

•    Loosen it Up – A tight diaper can often leave lines on your baby’s skin. Keep the diaper loose and your baby will be line-free.

•    Unexpected Delight –Your baby will not be wearing a diaper during the photo session and occasionally – things happen! Your photographer will be prepared for the unexpected, especially if you happen to be holding the baby!

Toddler Photography Session

•    Keep it Clean – Trim your toddler’s nails and remove fingernail polish, unless the nail polish is specifically applied for the session.

•    No Shoes Required – Don’t fret over what shoes to bring, as shoes are often removed for a toddler photography session (unless you specifically request otherwise.)

•    Be a Smartie Pants – A pack of Smarties can be a versatile tool in a successful toddler photo shoot. For instance, they melt quickly in a child’s mouth while a cookie takes longer to chew and chocolate can make a huge mess. Also, they can be used to encourage (or we might say bribe) a child to pay attention or hold a certain pose longer.

•    Less Distractions –The tendency for the parent is to want to “help” get their children to smile but this can actually be distracting and often will over stimulate and confuse the child.  Some photographers prefer that the parents leave the room during a toddler photo shoot while others are fine with parents around.  Either way, trust your photographer to direct the energy of the shoot and you will be much happier with the end result.

Family Portrait Session

•    Focus on You – It is easy to worry too much about what other’s in the picture are doing. Is Billy smiling? Is Tommy making a face? Try not to think about the kids and let your photographer handle the heavy lifting of getting those natural looking expressions from your kiddos.

•    The Finishing Touches – For a family portrait session, moms should apply a little more makeup than usual.  After all – this is a professional photo shoot, so makeup is anticipated and accepted.  Lastly, the final touch of lip gloss (even lightly applied to little girls) goes a long way in a portrait.

•    Prepare Yourself – Grooming is key with photo sessions, so ensure you schedule manicures, pedicures and hair appointments in advance of your appointment. Everyone should assume they might have to remove their shoes at some point (even the men) and men should also make sure to clean up their neck as there could be a close-up shot that shows their necklines.

•    Bumps and Bruises – It is ok if your son or daughter has a scratched knee or a small bruise, as those can be easily retouched by your photographer. However, a black eye or a swollen lip means you should probably reschedule your appointment.