I can’t even tell you how many times people tell me when they hire me as a newborn photographer that they aren’t sure how the older sibling will do. Here’s the deal, not only is it my goal to make the newborn session with a new baby go smoothly BUT also to get the best shots with the older sibling too. More often than not, parents are shocked at the end result even with toddlers that didn’t seem to cooperate. I’m sharing a few of my secrets with when it comes to siblings at newborn sessions, no matter the age.
Set them up for success!
For me this means, make sure they are not hungry and that they are well rested. Have a favorite song, show or movie ready to go if they need a distraction for a minute! Most older siblings do great with incentive, so offer them a small treat or toy for good smiles and behavior.
Trust Me to do what I do best!
When I walk in to your house, my goal is to make everyone comfortable with me, that includes the husbands and the toddlers. If there they can quickly build a rapport with me, it helps in getting those smiles! I have a lot of special things I like to use to help siblings think what we are doing is SO fun. It’s easier said than done, but try not to stress over sibling behavior and let me help to make it fun and take some of the stress off of you.
Be flexible!
One of the most important things when there are older siblings, especially toddlers, is to be flexible. Sometimes the best pictures are not the staged ones but the real life moments. The ones that hold all of the toddlers in their element or showing off their new baby. You will want to remember all of the seasons and letting big brother or sister be themselves always turns out so beautiful!
“Paige is fantastic! Somehow she always manages to capture the best photos of us, even with two little ones that can be difficult to get to smile. She is so patient and sweet with my girls and goes the extra mile to make them feel comfortable and that shows through in the final photos!” – Elizabeth
