Parents often ask me if their toddler is welcome in my newborn sessions.
And it's a question which usually carries more than just logistics with it. Beneath the question is often worry. Will my toddler cope? Will they be “too much”? Will it ruin the session? Am I asking too much of them… or of myself?
So I want to begin with reassurance:
Yes. You absolutely can bring your toddler to your newborn photography session.
And just as importantly — there is no pressure either way.
As a Canberra newborn photographer, my sessions are designed around real families, not idealised ones. Around children who are curious, energetic, shy, sensitive, loud, quiet — sometimes all of those things in the space of ten minutes. There is room for your toddler exactly as they are. You might be interested to read another of my blog posts on that subject, to learn more about my approach.
What newborn sessions with toddlers actually look like
When toddlers are part of a newborn session, the day unfolds gently and flexibly. We usually begin with family and sibling images while your toddler’s interest is fresh, capturing those early moments of connection — a hand on the baby, a curious glance, a cuddle that lasts half a second longer than expected.
After that, toddlers are welcome to drift in and out. They might play nearby, take breaks, snack, or head off with another adult for a little while. There is no expectation that they stay engaged the entire time, and no requirement for stillness or perfect cooperation. This is the case whether the session is in your home - where your toddler is already comfortable in the space - or in my studio, as it has a child-safe space connected to the studio for little ones to take some time out while we continue the session.
Some of the most meaningful images come from these in-between moments — when a toddler wanders back over on their own terms, when they lean in close, when they show us who they are rather than who they think they need to be.
My approach to including toddlers
I never ask toddlers to perform, pose, or behave in ways that feel unnatural to them. I invite, gently. I follow their lead. I allow space for big feelings, quick exits, and quiet returns.
If a toddler doesn’t want to participate, that’s okay. If they want to hold the baby for one moment and then run off, that’s okay too. The session is not derailed by toddler energy — it is shaped by it.
Your job is not to manage your child for me. My role is to hold the space, read the room, and work with whatever unfolds.
What you don't need to worry about
You don’t need to apologise if your toddler is loud, hesitant, emotional, or uninterested.
You don’t need to correct them constantly, coax smiles, or worry about “ruining” anything.
You don’t need to carry the mental load of making the session goes a certain way.
Toddlers are allowed to be toddlers here. This season of your family life is tender and unpredictable — and that is not something to hide from. It’s something to respect.
A few optional tips
If it feels helpful, you might:
Bring a familiar snack or comfort item
Let your toddler know they can take breaks
Keep expectations soft and flexible
Have another adult available to step in if needed (grandparents are a wonderful help and we can involve them in some of the session too!)
These are supports, not requirements. We’ll adapt together.
Is it ok to choose newborn-only images?
Absolutely. Some families decide that focusing on the newborn alone feels best — whether for practical reasons, emotional bandwidth, or simply preference. This is a valid choice, and one made with care.
There is no “right” decision here. Only what feels most supportive for your family in this moment.
A final word
If you’re reading this while newly postpartum, juggling sleep deprivation, emotions, and a toddler who is also adjusting to enormous change — please know this: you are not asking too much.
Your family, just as it is right now, is worthy of being documented with gentleness and respect.
If you’d like to talk through what would feel best for your Canberra newborn photo session, I’m always happy to chat. We’ll find a rhythm that supports you — and leaves room to breathe.
