How to Get Genuine Smiles from Toddlers (Without Candy or Toys)
By Irma Arrowsmith – Documentary Family & Newborn Photographer, Sussex & Surrey
As a documentary family photographer, one of the most common things parents ask me is:
“How do you get our toddler to smile without bribing them?”
And it’s a great question. Toddlers are wild cards—adorable, curious, sometimes chaotic, but always full of emotion. The good news? You don’t need props, toys, or snacks to get authentic smiles. You just need a little patience, a calm environment, and the right approach.
Here’s how I capture genuine joy and connection during family photo sessions—without staged grins or sugary bribes.
🎈 1. Let Go of the Idea of “Perfect”
Before we even get into the shoot, let me say this: toddlers don’t perform on demand. And that’s the beauty of documentary photography—it’s not about posing, but presence.
Instead of “Say cheese!”, I look for those in-between moments:
When your child cuddles into your shoulder
When they’re chasing a sibling barefoot in the garden
When they burst into laughter because of something you did, not me
The pressure’s off—and that’s when the real smiles show up.
👣 2. Get on Their Level (Literally)
One of my go-to techniques is to photograph at toddler-eye level. It’s less intimidating, and it allows me to connect with them as an equal. I’ll often sit on the floor, crawl in the grass, or perch on the edge of a bed to match their energy and perspective.
Toddlers love it when adults come into their world—and that’s when they start to open up.
🎵 3. Use Movement and Sound, Not Props
Rather than bringing toys or gadgets, I rely on rhythmic cues like:
Whispering secrets behind my camera
Giggly sound effects
Mimicking their movements
Silly songs they already know
These subtle, sensory tricks create curiosity and connection without distracting from the scene. And bonus: it keeps the photos natural and clutter-free.
👨👩👧 4. Focus on Interaction, Not Performance
Some of the best toddler smiles happen when they’re:
Being tickled by a parent
Listening to a silly story
Splashing in a puddle or bath
Reaching for a snack in mum’s arms
I encourage families to play, cuddle, and be together, just like they would on any other day. My camera stays quietly in the background, waiting for the laughter to unfold organically.
📷 5. Embrace the Meltdowns, Too
Yes, even the tantrums make the cut.
Why? Because they’re real. And sometimes, the aftermath of a little frustration is a deep snuggle, a wipe of the tear, and a giggle through snotty noses—all of which are incredibly tender moments that tell the full story of your family.
🌿 The Takeaway
You don’t need to stage the perfect moment. You don’t need a basket of props. You don’t even need your toddler to “cooperate” in the traditional sense.
You just need space to be yourselves—and someone who knows how to see the joy hiding in the chaos.
If you’re ready for a photography session that celebrates your child just as they are—tears, giggles, wild curls and all—I’d love to chat. 💛
📍Book Your Next Family Session
Irma Arrowsmith is a documentary-style newborn & family photographer covering Sussex, Surrey, and London.
Want unposed, heartfelt images of your family in their realest moments? Get in touch here or explore the portfolio.
