Parents frequently state when booking a photoshoot with their children that they’re worried about behaviour or boredom. Let this reassure you: Shauna has seen everything, and it is absolutely okay! If your baby cries or fusses, that’s okay. If your child is fed up, that’s okay. 

Morning Star Photography ensures families feel comfortable and cared for, especially when young children and babies are involved. Shauna has completed newborn first aid and attended numerous workshops with the best mentors, such as Kelly Brown and Russ Jackson. She has been working with families for nearly twenty years, and her calm, patient approach and cosy studio environment are a perfect match for families. Still, some planning can make the experience even smoother. 

Read more about Shauna’s experience here

1. Choose the Right Time (for your child)
Book your session around your child’s happiest time of day — usually after a nap and a snack. Shauna will guide you, but let her know your little one’s natural rhythm so she can schedule accordingly. Feeding time can be important for newborns and young babies, so you can read more here if you’re planning a newborn shoot. 

2. Keep Outfits Simple and Comfortable
Shauna’s photography style is timeless and natural. Choose soft, neutral colours, simple textures, and avoid logos or busy patterns. Most importantly, make sure clothes are comfy — itchy tags or tight waistbands can lead to meltdowns.

Read Next: The Best Outfits to Wear for a Photoshoot

3. Bring Familiar Items (But Keep Them Subtle)
A favourite toy, blanket, or soother can help little ones feel safe. Let Shauna know if there’s a comfort item you’d like to keep just out of frame — she’s great at working around them.

4. Don’t Stress About Smiles
Genuine moments matter more than perfect smiles. Shauna has years of experience connecting with kids and capturing their personalities. Let her work her magic—laughter and eye twinkles will follow.

5. Prepare, But Don’t Over-Prepare
Avoid overcoaching your child beforehand. Phrases like “Smile for the camera!” can create pressure. Instead, keep it upbeat and casual: “We’re going to visit Shauna—it’ll be fun!” Shauna is used to working with children regularly, so she will be warm and inviting, and they’ll soon be comfortable posing for photos in the studio! 

6. Snacks & Breaks Are Okay
Bring easy, non-messy snacks (think rice cakes, crackers, raisins, or cut fruit). Shauna allows time for breaks — use them to reset, cuddle, or regroup without stress.

7. Arrive Early & Settle In
Arriving 10–15 minutes early gives your child time to get used to the studio. If you opt for Shauna’s studio, it is warm and inviting — this will allow them to explore calmly before jumping in. If it’s a destination shoot, let the family get used to their surroundings before it begins. 

Read Next: Outdoor Photoshoots

8. Trust Shauna (And Let Go a Little)
Shauna knows how to follow a child’s lead. If your baby wants to crawl or your toddler needs to dance in circles, that’s okay! These spontaneous moments often make for the most heartwarming photos.

9. Keep Expectations Realistic and Joy-Focused
A perfect photo doesn’t mean everyone looking at the camera. It might be a tiny hand on your cheek or a shared laugh — trust that these authentic connections are what you’ll treasure most.

10. Take Care of You, Too
Dress in something that makes you feel confident and relaxed. Take a deep breath, have your coffee, and remember — your energy sets the tone. If you’re calm and happy, your kids will feel it too.

Shauna’s speciality is turning real moments into beautiful, lasting memories. With her gentle guidance, even the busiest toddlers or wiggliest babies can become stars of an easy and enjoyable session.