Simple Ways to Engage Toddlers During Photo Sessions

I’ve been a family photographer for more than a decade, and have photographed countless toddlers and small children. Along the way, I’ve picked up some easy ways to make toddler photo shoots more fun! Yes, they can be unpredictable, they move as fast as lightning, have *big* emotions, but they’re honestly my favorite to work with! You never know what they’re going to do, so it’s impossible for the photos to feel overly posed or stiff! Here are a few of my tried and true techniques to help toddler photo sessions go a little more smoothly!

Feed them first!

Sessions are often scheduled in the evening for light, so make sure they have a hearty snack or even an early dinner so they aren’t hangry! I’ve totally had to photoshop an orange snack cup out of multiple images because a sweet little one was so ravenous that even after a lengthy snack break, she still needed to hold her puff cup!

Along the same lines, try to make sure they get a good nap, and don’t schedule any shots the week before your session!

Play Their Favorite Tunes:

Music works like magic. Play your toddler’s favorite songs and watch them light up. Dance, sing, and be silly together. It’s a great way to capture natural smiles and laughter. We do this in the studio all the time! Don’t ask me how many times I’ve listened to “Baby Shark!” 

Incorporate Their Favorite Toy: Bring along their favorite toy or stuffed animal- bonus points if it’s neutral or classic. It can be a comfort item and also a great prop for candid shots, and helps you remember more about *this* stage! I have several wooden toys like boats, trains, blocks and rattles, as well as knit dolls in soft tones. These can add a sweet detail and keep your kiddo engaged without being super distracting!

Use Funny Faces and Sounds: Never underestimate the power of a funny face or a silly sound. Peek-a-boo, funny animal noises, or even a playful ‘I’m going to get you’ can lead to adorable expressions.

One word of caution- too many people making crazy noises and faces can be overwhelming, so stick with one person standing behind the photographer!

Something Unexpected: A long handled feather duster and a squeaky pirate chicken dog toy are my secret weapons to getting real smiles from toddlers! They never expect to be tickled with a feather duster, and the sweet little face they make when expecting the tickle is adorable!

You can also hand them a piece of clear tape to get them to sit, at least for a moment! 

Take Breaks: Toddlers have short attention spans. Don’t push for continuous shooting. Take breaks, let them play, and then come back for more snaps.

Use prompts: I have a handful of silly prompts or questions to ask toddlers that can get real smiles and fun candid shots! Try some of these:

– Do you know who lives in my camera? Spiderman! Look really close – can you see him? He jumps out when I take a photo! *Snaps photo* Did you see him??? (This only works with a “real” camera not usually a phone, but worth a try either way!)

– Let’s play a game of “who can laugh the loudest?” Ready 1-2-3 laugh!! (Pro tip – the REAL laugh will come a few seconds after the loud laugh)

– Does a cat say “woof woof??” A cat goes “woof woof” right?? No?? Are you sure? I’m pretty sure a cat says “woof woof!” How about a cow? What does a cow say? “Meowwwww?”

– Ask them to tell mommy or their sibling their favorite (animal, toy, tv show, etc). They might not laugh but it’ll get cute “whispering” shots and you might get a giggle or two! 

We run on the kiddos time at a session. They are naturally curious and full of energy, which means they may not always cooperate with our vision.
 

How YOU can help your toddler take more genuine photos and have more fun!

Lower expectations: Whether your photo session is an impromptu one with your phone or you’re hiring a photographer, the best way to be pleasantly surprised is to lower your expectations. 

Instead of aiming for perfect poses, embrace the candid and unscripted moments!

These unfiltered shots often turn out to be the most authentic and heartwarming – and you get to see more of your child’s personality! 

Don’t Stress: Toddlers are incredibly perceptive, and they can pick up on your anxiety. 

If you’re relaxed and happy, they’re more likely to be the same! 

When you’re having fun together, those genuine smiles and expressions will naturally emerge, resulting in photos that truly reflect the joy of the moment.

Whether you’re headed to a professional photoshoot or you’re taking photos at home with your cell phone, the key to capturing those priceless, spontaneous moments with your little ones isn’t about the perfect pose or smile.

It’s about using some tricks to get real laughs & candid moments and have fun with it! Those are the moments we cherish as parents, right?

If you’d like more tips like this, download my Finding Magic in the Chaos PDF!

Contact me to start planning your toddler photo session!

There’s something beautiful about being photographed in a space that feels calm, simple, and inviting.

That’s exactly why I created my lifestyle photography studio in Chesapeake, Virginia!

It’s neutral by design with soft whites, warm textures, organic tones, so your images will feel timeless and blend beautifully into your own home. No bold colors competing for attention. No trendy backdrops that date quickly. Just light, connection, and the ones you love most.

I truly believe that your photos shouldn’t just live on your phone, they should fit into your life and home effortlessly where they can bring joy and remind you of your greatest blessings.

Dreamy Light, All Year Long

One of the most special things about the studio is the light. I love it when a client enters for the first time- their soft “oh wow!” when they walk through the door. It’s a space that feels calm and inviting, like you can exhale.

It’s soft, consistent and dreamy in every season.

Whether it’s the middle of winter or the heat of summer, the light pours in and wraps around you in a way that feels gentle and natural. You don’t have to chase golden hour or worry about weather. The glow is always here.

And that means your images will always feel warm, no matter the month.

The “In-Home” Feel… Without the Overwhelm

So many families love the idea of lifestyle, in-home photos.

But in reality, that means decluttering, cleaning, moving furniture and stressing about whether the light in your house is “good enough.”

In the studio, you get the cozy, snuggly, relaxed look of in-home photography without any of the pressure.

No rushing to tidy up.
No wondering if your baseboards will show.
No last-minute scrambling.

You simply show up and know that a beautiful space (and wardrobe!) is waiting for you.

A Space That Invites Connection

The studio is intentionally cozy with several seating options and textures. Open floor space allows little ones to move naturally. Simple setups encourage snuggling, playing, and being present.

It’s not about stiff posing.

It’s about:

• Babies curled into your chest
• Toddlers climbing into your lap
• Quiet maternity moments
• Gentle laughter and movement

The space holds that beautifully.

Everything You Need Is Already Here

You don’t have to bring a trunk full of options or wonder what will photograph well.

I have:

• A thoughtfully curated client wardrobe with high quality dresses from Jamie Kay, Femme and Fawn, Free People, and Nothing Fits But
• Simple props like baskets, stools, benches, and seasonal florals
• Clean, timeless pieces that enhance and never distract

And for mamas wanting something extra special, there is a beautiful tub available for milk bath sessions or intimate maternity portraits. The simplicity of it creates images that feel soft, feminine, and deeply personal.

All you have to do is walk in the door.

Come As You Are

The heart behind this studio is simple:

I want you to feel taken care of.

I want the experience to feel easy.
Restful.
Even a little like a deep breath.

You don’t need a perfectly styled home.
You don’t need to stress over details.

You just need to show up ready to love on your people.

The rest is already here waiting for you.

I’m so excited to create timeless, cherished photos for your family. Please contact me so we can start planning your session!

The Beauty of a First Year Photography Membership in Hampton Roads

I know it feels like you’ll remember every detail, but trust me- the newborn scrunch, gummy smiles and knee dimples, the first wobbly steps… it all happens so quickly! It’s on to the next stage, and those moments that seemed so significant gradually fade into hazy memories.

That’s why I created my First Year Membership for families in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk, Virginia. Instead of scrambling to book a session at each stage, you get to relax knowing that your baby’s first year will be beautifully documented from beginning to end.

Why Choose a First Year Membership?

1. A Relationship That Grows With You

From your maternity session to your baby’s first birthday, you’re not just working with a photographer, you’re working with someone who gets to know your family, your story, and your style. That means by the time we’re capturing your little one’s first steps, you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, and know what to expect each time! And if there are older siblings? Working with the same photographer makes the process SO much easier and more fun since they don’t have to warm up to a stranger!

2. Every Milestone, Without the Stress

The first year is full of milestones you’ll never want to forget: tiny newborn fingers, tummy time grins, sitting up, crawling, and finally standing tall at one year. With the membership, you don’t have to remember to schedule each session- it’s already planned out for you.

3. Consistent Style, Beautiful Storytelling

When you work with the same photographer across the year, your images naturally tell a cohesive story. Each session flows into the next, creating a collection that feels intentional and timeless. Imagine an album that begins with your maternity glow and ends with cake-covered baby smiles- it’s a legacy you’ll treasure.

4. Guidance Every Step of the Way

As a full-service photographer in Hampton Roads, I’ll walk you through every detail: styling with my curated client closet, choosing locations that reflect your family, and finally helping you turn those images into artwork. You won’t have to wonder what to do with hundreds of digital files-I’ll guide you in creating albums and wall art that grow with your family.

Bump to Birthday: The Fastest Year

Your baby’s first year is a story worth telling, not just through quick snapshots on your phone, but through intentional, beautifully crafted photography that celebrates each season.

If you’re expecting or have a little one under three months, now is the perfect time to join the First Year Membership. There are so many perks to joining the membership- complementary images, discounts on artwork, first access to limited edition sessions (Lavender, cherry blossoms, etc!). Together, we’ll create a legacy of images that you’ll look back on long after the baby years have passed.

📍 Serving families in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and the greater Hampton Roads area.

Learn more about the First Year Collection here.

Contact me to start planning your session!

A few years ago, when my kids were little, I remember . I loved capturing them in that season—but after the session, those images sat on my hard drive for months. One or two made it to Facebook, maybe one became my profile picture, but the rest? Lost in the chaos of everyday life. I was too overwhelmed to choose outfits, too exhausted to figure out printing, and too busy to design an album.

That experience is exactly why I became a full-service family photographer for Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk families. Because photos aren’t just about the session itself, they’re about helping busy, overwhelmed moms actually enjoy the process and end up with memories they can hold in their hands.

Here’s what the journey looks like when you book your fall family photos with a full-service photographer who is with you every step of the way:

A Personal Consultation—Because Your Story Matters

Before your session, we’ll hop on the phone or meet in person to talk through wardrobe, location your vision, and your family’s unique dynamics. Do you want cozy, snuggly images under colorful fall trees in Chesapeake? Or playful beach photos in Virginia Beach? This step ensures your session feels personal, not cookie-cutter.

Stress-Free Styling with a Curated Client Closet

Instead of racing through Target the night before your session, or ordering clothes online that may or not fit and then having to return them, you’ll have access to my carefully curated client closet. Think flattering dresses, both neutrals and pretty prints, and sweet children’s pieces that photograph beautifully in Virginia’s golden fall light. My goal is for you to show up relaxed, knowing you’ll look and feel amazing. While you may still have to fill in gaps with a few pieces, and using the client closet isn’t required, my hope is that it streamlines the process of coordinating outfits and minimizes the expense of having to purchase clothing that may only be worn once!

A Fun Session with out the “Say Cheese!”

Kids are wiggly, energetic, and have their own goals for the session (most often, to explore!) so while I have some tricks up my sleeve to get the “everyone looking and smiling” photo, take a breath, because we will move and play! Tickles, Ring Around the Rosie, airplane, and other movement based games will help kiddos stay engaged and connected! Also, while images with everyone’s faces visible are preferred in traditional portraiture, be open to photos that show connection and emotion in other ways, like hands clasped, or the sweet fleeting details that you’ll miss when they’re gone! This also takes the pressure off parents and kids to always be looking and smiling, and instead be present and connected! Those are sweet moments you’ll want to remember.

Turning Photos into Tangible Artwork

When your gallery is ready, I’ll sit down with you—virtually or in person in Hampton Roads—to walk through your images. Together, we’ll decide which ones you love most and how to display them in your home. Whether it’s a statement piece above your mantle, an heirloom album to pass down, or a gallery wall that grows with each season, I’ll guide you through it

Because your family deserves more than digital files on a hard drive. You deserve artwork that brings joy every single day.

---

Ready for Your Fall Family Photos?

If you’re looking for a full-service photographer in Hampton Roads, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, or Norfolk who takes the overwhelm out of family photos, I’d love to walk with you through the process. Together, we’ll create images that don’t just live on your phone, they’ll live in your home.

Let’s get your session in the books while I still have availability! Contact me now to schedule your planning session!

Some sessions are extra sentimental, and these photos of Baby Aria as a brand new one-year-old have my heart!

Her family lived just across the street, and it was the sweetest season of simply doing life together. I was there from the moment her mama first said, “I think I want another baby,” through the excitement of her gender reveal, slow walks around the block, and porch chats as we waited for Aria’s arrival.

I still remember the joy and anticipation of watching their car pull into the driveway when they brought her home from the hospital. And just before the military moved their sweet family across the country, Aria curled up in my arms and slept for hours—tiny, peaceful, and perfect.

Now, a year later, they came back for a much-too-short visit—and I knew we had to squeeze in a quick session for this beautiful girl. As a Chesapeake baby photographer, it was such a joy to document how much she’s grown.

She’s still got those same stunning blue eyes and gentle spirit, but now she’s full of personality, curiosity, and those precious toddler curls. And while she wasn’t exactly in the mood for a photo shoot at first, her mama pulled out all the stops—crazy dancing, silly voices, the whole show—and it worked! We captured the most heart-melting gummy smiles and sweet little giggles.

Documenting these milestones, especially for a dear friend, is something I’ll never take for granted. These fleeting moments matter—and preserving them is one of the greatest privileges of being a Chesapeake baby photographer.

Happy birthday, Aria. You are so very loved!

If you’d like to document some special milestones for your baby, please fill out my Contact form! Aria’s outfits and floral arrangements are all available for client use. Leave the planning to me- all you have to do is show up!

There’s something so special about watching a family grow and change over time — and getting to document each sweet chapter along the way, including this East Beach family session, is truly one of my favorite parts of this job.

I’ve had the absolute joy of photographing this beautiful family since their now two-year-old was still growing in mama’s belly. From their maternity session to newborn snuggles, and now capturing this season as they prepare to welcome another precious little one — it’s been such an honor to preserve these milestones for them.

We met at East Beach, but since we’ve already done one beach session, chose to the gorgeous oak trees and beautiful blooms as their backdrop. The lawn provided lots of space for their busy little one to run, and we all had a bit of a workout keeping up with him!

The best part of photos with little ones is that they feel natural and joyful, and never overly posed. I photograph quickly and always have little games and fun prompts to keep them engaged! I bring my 14 year old daughter to nearly every session with toddlers so she can help me wrangle and evoke natural smiles- usually with a squeaky pirate chicken or a tickle from a long handled feather duster!

I’m so excited for this family to welcome another brother in the fall, for their big move to North Carolina!

While I’m a little sad to see them leave, I’m so incredibly happy for them as they enter this new season, surrounded by loved ones and with a new baby on the way. Documenting these fleeting moments is exactly why I love what I do — capturing the joy, the connection, and the sweet in-between that makes family life so beautiful.

📩 Let’s start planning your session! Fill out my contact form to get started.

If you’re ready to document your family’s next chapter, I’d love to create something beautiful for you, too. 💕

Are you a mom to be who is looking for a Chesapeake newborn photographer but have some questions?

Don’t worry, I’m here to help!

As a newborn photographer and also a former occupational therapist, I understand the value and importance of capturing these early moments of your baby’s life because they truly change so quickly!

If you’re a mama to be, you’re probably overwhelmed with all the decisions you need to make, but newborn photography doesn’t have to be one of them!

So many of my clients reserve their sessions months before their due dates so that they aren’t scrambling at the last minute. The reality is that you never know how you’ll feel or how quickly you’ll recover after birth, so being able to check as many things off your list as possible is a way to make things a little easier, in case you do need some extra rest and recovery time post-birth!

Let’s dive into some of the most common questions about newborn photography.

“What should I look for when hiring a newborn photographer?”

It’s important to choose a photographer who specializes in newborn photography and has experience working with infants. Personally, I had years of experience working with newborns prior to my photography business as both a nanny and an occupational therapist with NICU experience! I also have additional safety training so that I can provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience for you and your baby. I understand the importance of capturing these early moments, and I take pride in creating beautiful, timeless memories that will bring joy for years to come.

“What can I expect during a newborn photography session?”

During a newborn photography session, I’ll create a comfortable and safe environment for your baby, and guide you through natural poses. You can include your family members in the photos, and I encourage parents and siblings to participate in this special moment.

To capture the best sleepy moments, it’s important to schedule your newborn photography session fairly early, ideally within the first two weeks of your baby’s life. Of course, if there are circumstances that prevent this, there is never a wrong time to document your baby! I’ve worked with twins who spent 3 months in the NICU, and a 4 week old who slept like a champ and was perfectly chunky and precious! My approach is baby led and natural, so I won’t be forcing them into any poses or positions, so although the first 2 weeks tend to be sleepier, I love photographing babies of all ages! I do recommend booking your session as soon as possible during your pregnancy to ensure availability.

“Do I need to bring anything?”

One of the perks of an in studio session is that you just have to show up! You’ll have access to my beautiful Client Closet, wraps, bonnets, bows, snuggly knit outfits, and diaper covers. Optionally, some clients choose to bring a special heirloom outfit or toy to incorporate.

“When will I get my photos?”

After the session, you can expect to have your Gallery Reveal and Ordering appointment within a week or two! I offer a range of options that include both digital files and prints. I’m happy to work with you to create a customized package that meets your specific needs.

“How much does newborn photography cost?”

My Studio Menu is designed so that you can select exactly what you love. Pricing depends on what you choose, and can range from $500 to $3,000. I know this might seem like a significant investment, but keep in mind that newborn photography is a specialized service that requires a lot of time, education, and equipment, and I specialize in creating heirloom artwork. My goal is for you to have tangible memories of your baby’s first days, instead of just files on your hard drive or phone! I’m dedicated to providing high-quality images & products that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

Since your baby changes SO much in the first year, many mamas go with my First Year Membership so they can document every sweet stage! There are lots of perks and exclusive benefits, and it’s a wonderful option if you don’t want to miss any little detail!

So, there you have it! Newborn photography is a wonderful way to capture the early moments of your baby’s life and I do my best to take care of all the details, so all you have to do is show up!

If you have any questions about newborn photography or would like to learn more about booking a session at my studio, click here to fill out my contact form.

I’m here to help you create beautiful, timeless memories of this special time in

your family’s life!

Click here to see more of my newborn images

Click here to see an example of a newborn session in my lifestyle studio!

I can’t believe I’m just now blogging this unforgettable Sweethaven Lavender Picnic photography session! Bre wanted to celebrate her 32nd birthday in a special way after surviving a challenging 2020 (I think we all need to celebrate that!) She went all out! When you combine lavender, best friends, and amazing charcuterie, I’m in!

She hired Sparrow + Elm to style an incredible picnic in the lavender field, and I’ve never seen anything like it outside of a magazine! Melissa worked SO hard in the insane heat to put together this stunning spread! The candles may have melted, but so did our hearts (ha so cheesy! Brie maybe?)

This was my first friends photo session, and I loved it so much! Everyone was so fun and carefree! I love how all the outfits came together, and were absolutely perfect for the setting.  Bre used my Style Guide membership to help everyone coordinate. It’s such a neat service to help you visualize how all pieces will look together! She ended up with the perfect balance of color, texture and pattern! The hats, baskets and flower crowns were the perfect accessories to complete the looks!

Y’all, it was SO HOT! We were all sweating, but somehow Bre still looks like a goddess!

Bre, I’m so honored to have been able to help you document your amazing friendships, and a much needed birthday celebration after such a hard year! I hope these photos always bring you joy, and help you get through the hard times!

Myers Family

Spring is my absolutely most favorite time of year as a photographer. Fall is considered busy season because everyone is scrambling for Christmas card photos, but spring blooms + colors have my heart! This Virginia Beach cherry blossom photography session was extra special! I loved documenting this beautiful growing family for our 4th session together!

Photo Sessions with Kids Often Have Unexpected Challenges!

We had originally attempted first birthday photos earlier this year, but you’ll never believe what happened! Our originally session was a perfect, unseasonably warm day in January. All the details, from the dresses, hair and makeup, and the perfect location were planned. Then, as they were pulling into the parking lot, Abigail got carsick and tossed her cookies all over her perfect dress.

Y’all. We all just stared at each other in shock trying to figure out what to do! I’ve been a photographer for 7+ years, but it was a first! Sarah took Abigail to the bathroom to clean up, and put on the only change of clothes available- a black and neon pink track suit that didn’t quite fit our vision! In the mean time, I documented the birthday girl and her daddy, and then Mama jumped in too.  You know I had to photograph the whole family together, crazy outfit and all. While it’s not an image that would end up above the mantle, it’s still a memory, and kind of works in B&W!

Staying Calm and Rolling with the Punches is Key!

It was a crazy situation that no amount of planning could have prepared for, and I was so impressed with how gracefully Josh and Sarah handled it.  I know they were both worried about Abigail, and disappointed to have gone through all the effort to get ready for family photos, to not have them turn out as expected. Through it all, they had such perspective, and continued to be kind and gracious in the midst of the stress.

I share this as a reminder to myself and to my clients: sometimes things happen no matter how carefully we plan. The important thing is how we respond.  Take a breath, relax, and try to find some humor. I promise, even if your kids are crazy or your toddler throws up, we will get you beautiful photos, one way or another! I also learned a valuable lesson: bring backup outfits!

Of course, we did a reshoot when Abigail was feeling better, and I LOVE that the timing lined up with the Virginia Beach cherry blossoms! In the end, this sweet family has beautiful photos and a memory that they will hopefully laugh about one day!

Myers Family, you know I love you! You were such troopers to make it through two photo sessions with two toddlers! I hope these images make you smile for years to come. I am so excited to see them on your walls!

Jessica Jeremiah Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, motherhood, and family sessions in Hampton Roads, VA. Jessica creates dreamy, joyful images outdoors + in her all white lifestyle studio located in Chesapeake. All dresses provided by the JJP Client Closet.

I am so passionate about serving my clients + making it so easy to preserve precious memories, every step of the way. If you’d like to know more about the JJP experience, schedule a custom portrait session, or reserve your date, please visit my website or email me directly at jessica.jeremiah@gmail.com. 

I was a little nervous about starting my business over when we moved back to Virginia, but our neighborhood has been such a blessing! I’ve love meeting each new family, and having so many of them become both friends + clients is so fun!

I was so excited to finally connect with Sarah + Josh – Not only do they live a few blocks down,  Josh’s parents live right next door! We randomly met at the park one day + haven’t looked back since!

Sarah has become my gardening friend, and it’s so fun to have someone to learn + celebrate with. No one else was as excited for that first tiny tomato sprout! She is the absolutely sweetest, and always popping over to drop off a new fertilizer, pea trellis, or bunny fence!

It was such a joy to photograph sweet Annalise’s newborn days. She was such a precious, sleepy baby, and made my job so easy! Isn’t it so crazy how much Annalise resembles mom, and big sister Abigail is her dad’s twin? One of my favorite things about this beautiful family is how excited + involved Josh was. So many times, dads are just taking photos to make their wives happy. But Josh? Sarah says he’s the memory keeper of the family. What a sweet, sweet thing to have a dad who cares so much about preserving these precious, fleeting moments. As a newborn photographer, it doesn’t get any better!

I have such a soft spot for sisters, and I can’t wait to watch these two grow up together. Abigail is just a few months younger than Everly. It’s so crazy for me to imagine her as a big sister, since there are 7 years between my girls. Sending all my patience + coffee to Sarah + Josh, and any other parents of two in diapers!

Client wardrobe provided by JJP. Session photographed in my studio.

Jessica Jeremiah Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, motherhood, and family sessions in Hampton Roads, VA. Jessica creates dreamy, joyful images outdoors + in her all white lifestyle studio located in Chesapeake. 

I am so passionate about serving my clients + making it so easy to preserve precious memories, every step of the way. If you’d like to know more about the JJP newborn experience, schedule a custom portrait session, or reserve your date, please visit my website or email me directly at jessica.jeremiah@gmail.com.