In this week’s episode, Amber and Marie dive deep into one of their favorite topics — posing families with confidence. Whether you’re photographing toddlers with endless energy, shy little ones, or expectant mothers, today’s episode will help you find your flow and create connection-driven imagery that feels effortless and alive.
You’ll hear how both photographers approach posing — from reading children’s energy and setting expectations with parents, to layering prompts, building posing “chains,” and knowing when to step back and let magic unfold naturally.
This conversation is packed with actionable tips and mindset shifts to help you guide families confidently, capture authentic emotion, and elevate your sessions with artistry and heart.
Understanding posing flow with families (and why linear posing doesn’t work with toddlers!)
How to adapt your energy and approach to match each child’s personality
The importance of setting expectations and taking pressure off parents
Building posing “chains” that keep energy moving and connection natural
Using direction, light, and composition to create variety within a single pose
Communication, reassurance, and energy: what to say (and not say) during sessions
How music can shift the tone and emotion of a session
Favorite family, newborn, and maternity poses that inspire authentic connection
What to do when a session isn’t going as planned
Posing mindset: guiding through connection instead of chasing perfection
Handling sessions with multiple young kids and high energy
What to do when your usual tricks don’t work
How to reset when things feel chaotic or unplanned
Amber’s Course: Playful Posing — Learn to photograph families and maternity sessions in a fun, candid, and elevated way with prompts and posing flows that create authentic connection.
Marie’s Course: The Art of Motherhood — Go behind the scenes in real newborn, maternity, and family sessions to master natural, flattering, connection-filled posing.
These courses beautifully complement each other and are the perfect next step if you loved this episode.
Follow along for more behind-the-scenes, education, and creative inspiration:
✨ Amber: @light_livin_photography
✨ Marie: @marieelizabethphotography
