Full Family Sessions for Young Kids | Texas Family Photographer

This gorgeous Bullis County Park family session featuring the Lagunas Family was so much fun! I just love spending time with sweet families and capturing their precious memories. However, would you believe me if I told you that little Cillian was NOT about this session when we first started? He took his time warming up to me, which is completely normal—and totally okay! This is one reason why I’m an advocate for full family sessions for young kids!

Why Full Family Sessions Can Benefit Young Kids

One of the biggest misconceptions about family photos is that mini sessions are the best option for little ones. I often hear moms say, “Oh, I just need one good image!” or “My child will never last an hour!” As a mom of littles, I understand! However, I promise you’d be surprised at how different a 20-minute session can go versus a full-hour session, especially for children who take a little extra time to warm up. Oftentimes, 20 minute mini sessions don’t allow them the chance to get comfortable with me. Instead of capturing their true personality, the session might end before they’re even ready to engage.

In addition, my approach is different than what you might be thinking, as I won’t be asking your child to smile up at the camera and hold poses for an hour. Instead, our hour together will be spent with you exploring, playing, running around, and laughing together with little direction from me. I am just there to capture the magic that unfolds. I want to photograph those candid, real life moments because those are always the best photos!

My Approach

When I have little ones who need time to adjust, I take a very patient and gentle approach. I like to be a fly on the wall at first and give them space to get used to me. This might feel a little awkward at times because I intentionally keep my distance, slowly easing my way into the session to build their trust.

I am mindful because stranger danger is real, and I always want to respect that. But once they feel safe and comfortable—that’s when the magic happens! Their little personalities shine, and we get the most natural, fun, and joy-filled moments full of genuine smiles.

If your little one is feeling shy or hesitant, don’t stress! Instead of feeling like you need to force them to smile or perform, just interact with them the way you would at home–play, laugh, cuddle, love on them, and let them cling to you if they need to. Eventually they will get comfortable and even have fun! Some of my absolute favorite images are those sweet, snuggly moments when toddlers wrap their arms around mom or dad. These are the photos that truly capture the love and connection of your family.

If you have young kids and are debating between a mini session and a full session, consider giving your little one extra time to settle in with a full session. I promise, it can make all the difference in creating photos that feel relaxed, natural, and full of joy!