It’s the time of year that families booking photo shoots are thinking about Christmas cards.  Because of that, I don’t preview any whole-family images on either my blog, Facebook, or Instagram since I know that those are most likely to be used to send to friends and family.  This family met me at one of my favorite Franklin spots for a beautiful, sunny morning.  I like shooting over here both in the morning and evening because I use the property differently (which makes it fun for me!) based on the time of day and where the light is falling.

If I could bottle up the energy and happiness in Parker’s face, I’d be a rich woman.  When working with 2 year olds (or almost-2 year olds), I know that I probably won’t be able to get the child to sit still for a specific posed portrait.  I’m a mom of two boys and I teach a 2 year old Bible study class– I’m realistic.  That means lots of thinking on my feet and being flexible… and a fast shutter speed.  I do try to warn parents that sessions with 2 year olds can be hard (this one was not that case) because children that age can’t be reasoned with yet.  They don’t understand the idea of a bribe of a treat after a session (or even in a few minutes).  Staying calm and moving is the key.  If you as the parent can maintain your cool and not let a little misbehavior or wiggliness get under your skin, then we are way more likely to succeed.