Preface: This info is very general and I am aware that every child/family is different. Even if we have Neuro Divergent members of the family, or individuals with disabilities these tips still usually work great!

Using the Piaget school of thought let us dive into the Preoperational Stage (2–7 years old) which is the end of the sensorimotor stage and children start to use mental abstractions. It is the most impactful years of an individual’s life. It is the blueprint of how an individual experiences the world around them. This is when we really start to experience the gradual progression of autonomy and independence. During this stage young children are able to think about things symbolically and around the age of two we start to see a huge shift in their desire for power and individualism. Here are 3 strategies I like to use combat challenges and bring out the magic in our session time together!

Imaginative Play time: It may seem like I am not getting anywhere at first or that I am not creating portraits for your gallery but I am looking for laughter, true connection, and light int their eyes. Otherwise I am getting something that I am actually not interested in! During these years I understand that their language use becomes more mature, they develop memory and imagination, which allows them to understand the difference between past and future, and engage in make-believe. I like to use these factors in my session to make the time pass by with ease and adventure. When they feel that this is a special activity full of play and exploration I get deep into your families story and can find opportunities to capture it beautifully. So don’t be surprised if I end up prompting a game or tickles. :)
The Power Struggle: Power struggles are a natural and normal part of a child's development as they explore their autonomy and independence. They are testing boundaries, trying to learn the rules that govern our family lives and our world. During your family session there are a ton of things going on in your child’s mind. From the new environment, a stranger with a camera, sometimes uncomfortable clothing, and their own daily personal experiences this stage can be tricky! As someone who did psychotherapy/social work for 5 years I am here to tell you that I let them feel empowered as much as possible. Especially in the environment I just described. I am a new person to them and I have a camera on top of that so I like to build a relationship of trust by mirroring their energy and give them as much power as possible!
Choice- I use choices a lot! I give them the choice to sit over there or stand over there as I point out options. I might give them options of who they want to be held by or sit with. I will look for ways to give them as many choices as possible so that they will eventually feel a sense of control in this new environment. I let it take a little time all the while I capture them doing their thing which is essentially THE story am I right?
Positive Reinforcement: Otherwise known as bribery. Yep you read that correctly. My go to is gummy bears but I check with the parents to ensure they are good with that. I like to keep them going with a reward system to keep them motivated if necessary. Although, if I do the choices and imaginative play just right I never need this one. However, everyone is different and some kids just need it for a variety of reasons.

Tips for the Parents: Your babies are going to mirror you the entire time. I know it feels so hard to refrain from discipline you kiddos especially when there is a melt down but I promise you that the photographer has this. The less you take over the more I can re-direct the energy and focus to get the most out of our session. I promise I have been here and struggle so much with this tip. Trust me.

3 Ways to get your kids to rock your family photo session