During these years it seems the hardest thing to do is capture [your toddler] in portraiture. There will be countless studio visits, tantrums during the process, failed shots due to stubborn attitudes and one track minds. However, it’s not completely impossible to capture your toddler and get that shot to hang on the wall or give to the grandparents.

Tips for Photographing Tricky Toddlers:

• Strive to take portraits when your little one is well rested and full bellied.

• Don’t place too much emphasis on getting the perfect expression. Sometimes the best expression is one that you would normally dismiss (i.e. a pout.)

• Get in their comfort zone and snap away, with your digital camera, at those playful times.

• Pay attention to the surroundings and the available lighting and nature; use it to your advantage.

• Set the scene. Pull out favorite toys and stuffed friends and get down to their level and shoot. Props can and will be very useful when trying to capture the attention of toddler kids.

• Try to stick with natural light as many toddlers have a big time aversion to flash.

• Follow their lead and just snap as they go. You’ll be surprised with the results.