How to Prepare for Your Outdoor Session with Young Children

Because the best photos happen when everyone feels relaxed, seen, and free to be themselves.

If you're a mama thinking “But what if my toddler won’t cooperate?” — take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything wrong. Photographing little ones outdoors isn’t about getting them to sit still — it’s about capturing who they really are. The giggles, the cuddles, the wonder.

Here’s how to make your session feel less like a photoshoot and more like a sweet memory in the making.

1. Keep Expectations Realistic (and Embrace the Chaos)

Children are beautifully unpredictable. Some will run barefoot the whole time. Some might want to be held the entire session. All of that is okay. I don’t expect perfection — I expect presence.

Come ready to go with the flow. Sometimes the most magical images come from the unscripted moments — a spontaneous dance, a flower picked, a cuddle under the sky.

2. Dress for Comfort & Movement

Opt for soft, breathable clothing that allows your child to move freely and feel good. Earthy tones, pastels, and natural textures always photograph beautifully in outdoor light and landscapes.

Bring a backup outfit for little ones (just in case), and avoid clothes with loud logos or bright neon colors — they can distract from the emotion of the image.

3. Bring Simple Snacks & Water

A quick snack break can save the day. Think low-mess snacks that won’t leave crumbs or stains — like fruit slices, soft crackers, or cheese cubes. Hydration is key, especially during warm golden-hour sessions.

Just remember to tuck packaging away so it doesn’t sneak into your images!

4. Make It a Low-Pressure Adventure

Talk about the session as a fun outing:

“We’re going to play outside and explore while someone takes pictures of us!”

Avoid framing it as something they have to do. Let them know it’s okay to be silly, to run, to pick flowers — whatever makes them feel joyful and safe.

5. Arrive Early & Leave Room for Wiggles

Try to arrive a little early so no one feels rushed. Rushing = stress, and kids can feel that energy instantly. Give yourselves time to settle in, breathe, and let your child get curious about the space before we begin shooting.

6. Trust the Process (and Your Photographer!)

I’ve worked with countless families and little ones — I promise I’ve seen it all. Meltdowns, grass stains, shy kids, wild ones — it’s all part of the story. My goal is never to force a smile, but to capture the connection you already have.

Sometimes the image you’ll cherish most isn’t the “perfect” one — it’s the one where your child is wrapped in your arms, completely themselves.

Final Tip: You Set the Tone

If you’re relaxed, your child will feel that. If you’re anxious, they’ll pick that up too. So mama — show up, be present, and know that you are enough exactly as you are.

Your love, your laughter, your presence — that’s what we’re really capturing.

Ready to tell your story in the great outdoors?
Let’s make magic in the mess and turn your everyday connection into forever memories.