Tips for Including Toddlers in Newborn Photo Sessions

Worried your toddler won’t cooperate during your in-home newborn session? You’re not alone—and I promise you’re not the first parent to ask! The good news? Toddlers don’t have to behave “perfectly” to create beautifully real, heartfelt family photos.

As a New Jersey lifestyle newborn photographer, I’ve worked with dozens of toddlers—some shy, some energetic, and many with strong opinions. One thing I’ve learned? When we stop chasing perfection and start focusing on connection, magic happens. Read on for all my tips for including toddlers in newborn photo sessions.

My #1 Tip for Including Toddlers in Newborn Photo Sessions: Let Go of Expectations

Instead of stressing about how your toddler should behave, focus on making the experience enjoyable for him. The best lifestyle newborn sessions are not about perfectly posed photos—they’re about honest, emotive storytelling that celebrates your family just as you are.

During your session, I allow plenty of time for your toddler to warm up, take breaks, and engage on their own terms. There’s no pressure, and often the most memorable images happen when everyone is relaxed and just being themselves.

Pro Tips for Photographing Toddlers and Newborns Together in Newborn Sessions

Here are a few more ways to help your toddler feel involved and valued during your photo session:

Give Them a “Job”

Let your toddler “help” by patting your baby’s back, or holding a favorite stuffed animal near their new sibling. With so much attention on the new baby, toddlers often need a little extra TLC. Feeling useful can boost their confidence and engagement. I’ll often ask toddlers if they’d like to be my “assistant” and help me test the light before we get started which makes them feel important.

Incorporate Their Favorite Things

Whether it’s a beloved toy, blanket, book, or song—bringing familiar items into the session helps toddlers feel comfortable and gives us opportunities to capture authentic joy. Allowing toddlers to engage in an activity they love also allows us to capture storytelling images that reflect genuine moments.

Take Breaks and Follow Their Lead

If your toddler wants to run around or needs a snack, that’s okay! I often photograph baby alone or with one parent during these little pauses.

Create Moments of Connection

Rather than forcing hugs or kisses, I gently guide toddlers toward natural moments of connection—like lying beside their sibling, touching their toes, or looking at them with curiosity.

Be Present and Let Me Guide You

Your toddler takes emotional cues from you. If you stay calm, flexible, and engaged, they’re more likely to feel safe and cooperative. I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Real Life Example: When Music Set the Tone

One of my favorite sessions this year featured a family with a toddler who had just started loving music his mom had shared. When I saw their record player, I suggested putting on a song—and the moment he helped his dad place the needle on the record? Pure gold. He lit up! This session flowed so effortlessly because the parents were relaxed and engaged and trusted me to take the lead.

And when little Corey asked if I could stay for ice cream? That’s when I knew we’d created not just beautiful photos—but a joyful memory they’ll treasure.

Creating a Toddler-Friendly Newborn Session Experience

Yes, I’m here to deliver a beautiful gallery of images—but I also care deeply about how your session feels. I want it to be easy, meaningful, and fun. When a dad says, “Wow, that wasn’t stressful at all,” or a toddler asks when I’m coming back, I know I’ve done my job well.