Anyone who has lived with a toddler knows it's like living with a tiny Godzilla. They destroy everything in their paths and can't be controlled. And then try to get them to pose for a picture and it's all projectile flames and tantrums. Or at least that's how it was for my son which is why I did this little shoot (above) with him when he was two. 

So we should just give up and not photograph this age right!? Obviously that's not the answer. The trick is to trick them. That sounds mischievous but hey, sometimes you've got match their energy and toddlers are full of mischief. Here are some tips for photographing toddlers to get some great shots through these “terrible” days. 

Embrace the chaos. Toddlers love to throw things so why not give them something cute (and non-destructive) to throw like leaves, balloons or confetti?

This age loves to RUN. Usually away from you. While action shots are fun, sometimes you want them in front of something. I like to find ways to try to get them to stay still for a second. I use lots of stools in my studio with this age and once I put them down on it I distract with all of my might.

At this age they are still so little but they are now able to stand and walk on their own. Get shots of them alone next to things that show just how little they are now before you have to look up to talk to them.

Most kids these age get very attached to certain toys. Why not incorporate those toys into a fun picture? Tenley did a whole series of her daughter dressed like her favorite doll during those days. It was so much fun and a great memory of what she loved then!

More than anything, just breathe and go with it! This age has so many beautiful and fun things about it. Focus on those, use these tips for photographing toddlers and document away! 

If you want to learn how to interact with with toddler to get real smiles, how to get the best light and composition or how to style them for great milestone photos, our online photography course to teach you to take better pictures of your kids, Capturing Everyday Magic is for you! You can read more about it here, and purchase it below!