How to Get Your Toddler to Smile for Photos | Dorset Family Photographer Tips
Why is it that toddlers can be so funny, chatty, and full of personality…
until the second you pull out a camera?
Honestly, it’s like they just know 😅
One minute they’re running around, giggling, being their gorgeous little selves…
and the next? Blank stare. Or suddenly they’re glued to your leg refusing to move.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to get your toddler to smile for photos, and feeling a bit anxious about booking a photoshoot because of it—you are so not alone. It’s probably the number one thing mums say to me.
But here’s the thing I always gently remind them…
Your toddler doesn’t need to “behave” to get beautiful photos.
In fact, the best ones usually come when they’re just being completely themselves 🤍
How to Get a Toddler to Smile for Photos (Without Forcing It)
I think we all have this little vision in our heads of how photos should look…
Everyone smiling. Looking at the camera. Standing nicely together.
And with toddlers? That’s just… not real life.
Instead, I always say—let’s lower the expectations a little and shift the focus.
Because the magic actually happens in:
- The cuddles
- The running around
- The little hand holds
- The giggles that come out of nowhere
Those are the moments that feel like them.
Toddler Photoshoot Tips That Actually Work.
Let them play (this is where the magic is)
Rather than trying to get toddlers to sit still, I lean into movement and play.
We might:
- Go for a little wander
- Spin around together
- Play chase
- Or just let them explore
It takes the pressure off instantly—and it means the smiles you get are real, not forced.
Bring something familiar
This one is so simple but makes such a difference.
A favourite teddy, toy, or even a little snack can:
- Help them feel safe
- Give them something to focus on
- Ease them into the session
And sometimes those quiet little moments—snuggling their teddy or sitting with you—end up being the ones you love the most.
Don’t be afraid to be a bit silly 😄
This is honestly where the magic happens.
Toddlers respond so well to playfulness, so I’ll often:
- Ask silly questions (“Does a cow say meow??”)
- Play little games
- Pretend something funny is hiding in my camera
It’s not about getting them to perform—it’s about creating a moment where they forget about the camera altogether.
And that’s when the real smiles come.
Music = instant mood shift
If your little one has a favourite song… use it.
Whether it’s dancing, clapping, or just having a little bounce together, it can completely change the energy.
(And yes… I have listened to Baby Shark more times than I’d like to admit 🫠)
Take the pressure off yourself too
This is a big one.
Because as mums, we naturally want everything to go well. We want our children to behave, smile, cooperate…
But toddlers pick up on everything.
So if you’re feeling stressed? They’ll feel it too.
When you relax, go with the flow, and trust that it doesn’t need to be perfect…
They relax as well.
And if it all goes a bit chaotic? That’s okay too 🤍
Some of my favourite images have come from moments that didn’t look “perfect” at all.
A toddler clinging to mum.
A little meltdown cuddle.
Windy hair, sandy toes, slightly wild energy.
Because those moments are real.
And one day, those are the ones that will mean the most.
Relaxed Family Photography in Dorset.
If you’re based in Dorset and thinking about updating your family photos, my sessions are designed to feel relaxed, natural, and completely pressure-free—perfect for toddlers (and parents too 🤍).
You can find out more about my family photography sessions in Dorset or get in touch here.