How to photograph a toddler.... part 3

Valentine's Day is closing in and I decided today is the day I would get my daughter's portraits done.

I recruited my studio mate Jen Bean to assist me in today's challenge.

Of course last night I may have slept a total of 4 hours, Viola woke an hour earlier than normal.... she was being an absolute ray of sunshine at the house, especially when I was trying to get her out the door (note the sarcasm).  Kicking and screaming I got her buckled in and headed to Dollar General (they have mylar balloons for $1 as well as great props you are not upset about if they get ruined).  Picked up some red heart mylar balloons and a lollipop then headed to the studio.

I wanted to be prepared this time.

Of course when we get in the door, Viola starts to wander over to Jen's side.  She is a toddler after all with her own agenda.  Jen managed to lure her back with Triscuits (food tends to work with my child) once I had everything in place.  First thing she does is rip the balloons up I had taped to the floor.  The Elmo balloon I bought just for her didn't matter anymore, again my toddler wants everything Mommy has.

So, again while photographing a toddler patience is the key and you most likely have to go with the flow of the session!

Now with my daughter, turns out balloons work..... as well as Jen running around like a crazy person helped too ;) .

oh, lollipops work too....

Patience and bribery are the key in photographing my toddler...... having along someone to distract her also did the trick.

Remember, your ideal shoot isn't always going to happen when having your toddler photographed.  Let the photographer follow their lead, relax and wait to see what is captured.

and as they say..... 3rd time may be the charm!

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