Let’s be real, kids have a knack for picking the most inconvenient moments to have a meltdown. And if you’re planning a luxury family photo session, you might be stressing about what will happen if your child refuses to cooperate or has temper tantrums during the photoshoot.

First, take a deep breath. I promise you, tantrums are so normal during family photography sessions. As an experienced Orlando photographer, I’ve seen it all, big emotions, little protests, and even the occasional full-blown floor flop. And guess what? It never ruins the session.

In fact, with a little preparation and the right mindset, we can turn those unpredictable moments into something truly special. Here’s how you can set your little one (and yourself) up for success so your family photo session is smooth, fun, and tantrum-free… well, as tantrum-free as parenting allows!

Plan for Happy Kids (aka Avoid the “Hangry” Zone)

A hungry or tired child is a recipe for disaster, especially when we’re asking them to do something outside their normal routine. Before your session, make sure:

1. They’ve eaten something (a full meal or at least a snack).
2. They’re well-hydrated.
3. They’ve had a solid nap (if they still take them).

And don’t be afraid to bring extra snacks and water to the session. A little break with some goldfish crackers can work wonders.

Dress for Comfort, Not Just Cuteness

I get it, you want your family to look amazing. But if your child is uncomfortable in their outfit, that irritation can quickly turn into frustration.
Here’s how to avoid a wardrobe-related meltdown:

1. Test outfits ahead of time. If something’s too tight, itchy, or uncomfortable, you’ll know before the session.
2. Choose breathable, soft fabrics. Kids are sensitive to textures, and scratchy tags or stiff collars can be major distractions.
3. Let them wear shoes they can move in. If we’re doing an outdoor shoot, the last thing you want is a toddler refusing to walk because their shoes hurt.

When kids feel good in what they’re wearing, they’re way more likely to be happy and cooperative.

Bring Their Favorite Comfort Item

Sometimes, a little piece of home can make all the difference. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, toy, or blanket, bring it along.
Not only can it help calm them down if they start to feel overwhelmed, but it can also make for some of the sweetest, most authentic photos. Because let’s be honest, there will never be another time in their life where they love that little stuffed bunny as much as they do right now.

Keep the Mood Light (Your Energy is Contagious!)

Kids pick up on everything. If you’re stressed, they’re going to feel it.
Instead of worrying about perfect smiles or poses, go into the session with a relaxed, playful attitude. Here are a few things that help:

1. Play their favorite music in the car on the way to the session. Turn it into a fun experience from the start.
2. Hype them up. Tell them how fun it’s going to be and how excited you are to take photos with them.
3. Let go of perfection. Some of the best photos happen in the in-between moments, laughing, playing, snuggling, so just enjoy it.

If we make the session feel fun and light, kids are much more likely to go along with it.

Take Breaks When Needed

If your child starts to get overwhelmed, pause.
I always build in time for breaks during family portrait sessions, because sometimes kids just need a second to reset. That could mean:

1. A quick cuddle with mom or dad.
2. A sip of water or a snack.
3. A minute or two to run around and burn off some energy.

These little moments help kids feel seen and heard, which makes it much easier to bring them back into the session.

Let Kids Be Kids

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is expecting their child to sit perfectly still and smile on command. That never happens.
Instead, embrace the chaos.
If your child wants to run, twirl, or make silly faces, let them. Some of the best moments come from movement and real expressions. My job as a photographer is to capture your family as you are, not as some perfectly posed version of yourselves.
Trust me, the most magical photos happen when kids are being themselves.

Have a “Post-Session Plan” to Keep Them Motivated

A little incentive can go a long way. Let your child know that after the session, there’s something fun waiting for them, whether it’s ice cream, a trip to the playground, or extra screen time.
It’s not bribery, it’s motivation. And hey, who doesn’t love a little reward after a job well done?

Trust the Process (and Your Photographer)

If there’s one thing I want you to remember, it’s this:
Your child’s mood will not ruin your session.
I’ve worked with every kind of kid, shy ones, wild ones, moody ones, and everything in between. I know how to adapt, pivot, and capture beautiful images no matter what.
So instead of stressing, just trust the process. The best moments aren’t the perfect ones, they’re the real ones.

If you’ve been putting off a luxury family photo session because you’re worried about tantrums, let this be your sign to just go for it.

With a little prep, a relaxed mindset, and a photographer who knows how to roll with the punches, your session will be a fun, joyful experience, meltdowns and all.

At my Downtown Orlando photography studio, I create a relaxed, playful environment where kids can be themselves and parents can actually enjoy the session. Let’s capture this season of your family’s life, no matter how wild, messy, or unpredictable it may be.

Ready to book your session? Contact me today and we’ll make it happen!