If you’re looking for some tips on including your toddler in your in home newborn photos, here are five things that can be helpful!

Having a newborn session with a toddler in the house can be challenging, but don’t let it stress you out! I always like to build extra time into newborn sessions, so there’s always ample time for breaks.

My top tips to having a stress free toddler and newborn session:⁠

✨ Schedule the session around nap time if possible! Keeping a routine for your toddler is important, and everyone will be happier and more cooperative!⁣⁠
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✨Talk to them about the session ahead of time, and make it feel like something special for them too.⁣⁠
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✨Have snacks handy, and it’s also ok to have grandma or a friend there for the session so when the toddler isn’t in photos they can stay entertained!⁣⁠ (Pro tip: Go for mini marshmallows over chocolate treats or suckers)

✨ Let them help pick out what to want to wear (maybe even just for a few photos!) or have a prize at the end after a job well done.
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✨ Keep your expectations in check. Toddlers are unpredictable and even the most smiley, cooperative toddler might still be adjusting to the new family member! We will make sure we get some wonderful memories, but don’t put too much pressure on the little one to perform. ⁣⁠

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Jen Madigan Photography is a Naperville, IL and Iowa City, IA based photographer available for travel worldwide. She specializes in maternity and lifestyle newborn photography.

 I would love to tell your family’s story through photos! Contact me for details and to book your session!