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It feels like just yesterday we were in the studio celebrating this sweet couple as they prepared to welcome their first son. Getting to welcome them back to my Saratoga Springs studio again, this time with little Maverick eager to jump into his new role as big brother, was extra special. One of my greatest joys as a photographer is watching families grow. There is something so meaningful about documenting these chapters and seeing the transformation from new parents to seasoned ones, now preparing to welcome another little one into their family. I absolutely love photographing maternity sessions, but ones with toddlers are extra special.

Why Maternity Portraits with Toddlers Are So Special

First-time parent maternity sessions are filled with so much joy, but are typically more quiet and intimate as a couple is entering into this new season of parenthood together. Maternity portraits with toddlers are filled with the same joy, but involve more movement, laughter, and candid moments. Toddlers bring an energy and spontaneity that can’t be planned, and I love embracing that during portraits.

Some of my favorite moments from this session were the giggles, cuddles, and the playful interactions between mom, dad, and Maverick. Those little moments of connection tell the story of this season so beautifully.

Light, Neutral Wardrobe Choices From My Mama Wardrobe

Mama chose two beautiful gowns from the studio’s wardrobe, and I loved how both looks photographed. Her first gown was a soft, flowing white dress that paired perfectly with Dad and Maverick’s white shirts. For the second half of the session, she chose a beautiful, neutral taupe gown, which complemented Dad’s white shirt and Maverick’s light blue top.

I adore working with light colors because they create such timeless, light-filled portraits. The soft neutrals allow the focus to remain on your family and the love you share, while also creating a gallery that will feel just as beautiful decades from now.

My favorite though was the playfulness and joy in all of the moments we captured between the expectant parents and their son. You can see just how excited they are and how much love surrounds their growing family.

View more from my Mama Wardrobe

How To Make Maternity Sessions Fun for Toddlers

Families with toddlers often worry about whether their child will cooperate, and I get it! Toddlers can take time to warm up when in a new environment or around new people. However, as a Saratoga Springs child and family photographer, I’m here to tell you toddlers don’t need to cooperate perfectly for us to create beautiful portraits.

After years of photographing young children, and many years before that working with little ones as a teacher, I’ve learned that the key isn’t forcing toddlers into perfect poses. It’s making the experience feel fun. Incorporating games is a great way for toddlers to have fun, laugh, and feel like they have a little control.

Throughout the session, I give them choices, let them help whenever possible, and turn everything into a game. We might pretend to fly, count toes, look for silly things, or play their favorite songs. I also incorporate snack breaks, plenty of toys, and an endless collection of little tricks I’ve gathered over the many years of working with children. Then, at the end of the session, I have a little prize box waiting for them to choose from as a reward! All of this makes the experience enjoyable for them, creating genuine, natural smiles, positive interactions, and relaxed sessions that don’t feel stressful for parents, which is always my goal.

Celebrating the Season Before Everything Changes

This season of life is incredibly special. Your first baby is still your baby, even though they’re suddenly growing into a little person. Soon they’ll be a big brother or big sister, and your family will change in the most wonderful ways. Maternity portraits with toddlers preserve this fleeting in-between season, capturing the love, anticipation, excitement, and the sweet bond your family shares before welcoming your newest little love.

I can already tell Maverick is going to be an amazing big brother! It was such a joy to have this beautiful family back in the studio to celebrate this exciting chapter. Congratulations!

Ready to schedule maternity portraits with your toddler? Contact me today to schedule your session.