Family Portraits with Little Kids: Embracing Chaos and Magic

Portrait sessions with little kids can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—one moment you’re capturing giggles, the next you’re navigating tears. Flexibility, creativity, and a good dose of patience are essential for any family photographer. Reflecting on this family’s photoshoot at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, you might never guess that the youngest member of the family was having a meltdown for a solid hour. But guess what? That’s life with kids. And honestly, it’s part of the beauty of these sessions.

Kids are wonderfully unpredictable. They’re full of surprises, and experience the world with an intensity we, as adults, sometimes forget. Helping a shy or overwhelmed child come out of their shell during a session is a practice in empathy and creativity—a reminder to see the world through their curious, big-hearted perspective.

In this session, mom and dad were absolute rockstars. Their patience, energy, and ability to roll with the punches made all the difference. Parents who stay relaxed and unfazed when things don’t go to plan create the perfect environment for authentic, joyful moments. Yes, it’s hard when you’ve organized a photoshoot, dressed everyone up, and your child isn’t cooperating. But the best approach? Embrace the moment, stay positive, and have fun.

This family nailed it. Mid-session, mom grabbed popsicles for the girls (which promptly fell in the sand—oops!), and they ended the day with a spontaneous pool play session. Splashing water captured in golden light always feels magical, and the girls’ laughter and authentic reactions were absolutely priceless. These playful moments are the ones that matter most—the ones families will treasure forever.

As any toddler worth their salt, she waited until the session was “over” to deliver the moment of the day—a cheeky grin and a hug for her sister. It was perfectly timed chaos and a reminder that the best shots happen when you least expect them.