Tips for Toddler Pictures | Kane’s 2nd Birthday

Sponsored Content: While Dillard’s at Fayette Mall provided the dress I’m wearing in these photos, all opinions are my own.

Kane turned two in June, so of course we wanted to have some pictures taken to celebrate the occasion.  We headed out to Papa John’s Park in Louisville with my friend Ashley from Wilkins Portraits.  Ashley is a friend from undergrad, and I’ve always enjoyed her photography. Since she now lives close enough to take pictures, I wanted to get in a session with her.  I highly recommend her if you live in the area!  She is not only talented but a fun photographer as well!
For toddler birthday pictures, I think that there are a few important things to realize. Here are my tips for a successful toddler photo shoot, whether it be for a toddler birthday or just because:  
First and foremost, you’re probably not going to get perfectly posed pictures (see our attempts at family pictures below). Don’t stress yourself out if it doesn’t happen. . .instead, embrace the photos as they turn out!  Kane is hell on wheels and wouldn’t sit still for anything.  Our pictures are an accurate representation of this time in our lives.haha
Second, the less props the better.  I brought along a few props for Kane in case we could use them, but he wasn’t having any of that. The only props that showed up were natural ones that he picked up outside, like the stick below and rocks (not pictured).
Third, the less outfit changes, the better.  Here, we stuck to two simple outfits for Kane.  In reality, no outfit changes probably would be the best scenario, but we wanted some pictures in his birthday shirt and some pictures in an outfit that was slightly dressier.
Finally, take along snacks.  Sometimes toddlers just need a little pick-me-up/reward during something like a photo shoot. My weapon of choice is fruit snacks, but anything that isn’t messy will do!

I hope these tops help you plan your next toddler photoshoot with the least amount of stress possible!

Now, as for what I’m wearing: My Antonio Melani dress is from Dillard’s at Fayette Mall in Lexington, Kentucky.  It is currently on sale for $62.65, which is a fraction of it’s normal cost! I love how the intricate pattern really shines with the black and white color scheme.  If you’re looking for a dress in the central Kentucky area, be sure to stop by the Dillard’s Fayette Mall location and let Holly and Tracy help you pick something out.  I picked up my Coach heels from there as well, also on major sale:)

If you have family pictures coming up and are looking for tips on what to wear, you can check out my post on styling family portraits here.

Linking up with Garay Treasures for Bloggers Who Inspire Me and the ladies over at  Tuesday Talk.

Nice to meet you!

Hi there! I’m Tif Fannin, the blogger behind Bright on a Budget, based in Lexington, Kentucky. Bright on a Budget is a Southern fashion and lifestyle blog where I share everyday looks, beauty, and travel, along with a behind-the-scenes look at my life as a working mom of two. I have a penchant for bright colors + good deals. Follow along for posts that are relatable to the everyday woman.

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