The truth is little ones under three are the best and hardest part about being a family photographer. Simply because they are constantly surprising the world around them. It keeps me on my toes and makes my job that much more fun and challenging. Long gone are the days where I can hold a stuffed animal over my head and little ones are distracted into a genuine smile (wait i'm not sure that ever worked now that I think about it)

So for me my goal is always to make my sessions about adventure, letting little ones see and experience the things they want to. As an adult I think we can agree sometimes getting your photo taken just feels awkward and I know kids get that sense too. So letting kids just be themselves has always been my trick for getting genuine moments of joy on little ones faces. Its not because I said "say cheese" its because I let them grab a stick or let them cling to mom if they are feeling unsure. Its definitely always full of surprises and maybe I'm letting a two year old run my session but somehow it always pans out. 

It seriously was such a pleasure getting to go on an adventure with little Leo. He was excited to lead the way immediately and kept me and his sweet parents on our toes as he walked all over the beautiful Black Hoof Park. He was clever and kind and just loved smiling for the camera. I'm sure if I was 2 again he would have been my best friend!