Hi there! I’m Mackenzie Edwards, a Louisville family photographer offering a full-service experience for busy, growing families.
And here’s something I want every parent to hear before their photo session: your kids do not need to perform.
They don’t need to sit still, smile on command, or follow directions perfectly for beautiful photos to happen. They just need to be themselves — and I’ll take it from there.
As a mom of three and a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I’ve. Seen. It. All.
And I fully expect wiggles, big feelings, short attention spans, and the occasional “absolutely not.” Those moments aren’t failures — they’re part of real family life, and often where the most meaningful photos come from.
First Things First: Kids Don’t Need to “Behave” for Great Photos
Some of the most meaningful photos come from:
- Wiggles
- Giggles
- Curious wandering
- Needing a break
- A quick cuddle with mom
Your child does not need to:
- Sit still
- Smile on command
- Perform for the camera
My job isn’t to control your kids — it’s to work with who they are in that moment.
When a Child Isn’t “Having It,” Here’s What Actually Happens
Instead of panicking (or apologizing — please don’t!), I quietly shift gears.
That might look like:
- Letting them explore while I photograph from a distance
- Turning the moment into a game
- Taking a quick snack or cuddle break
- Photographing connection instead of eye contact
- Letting parents just be parents
I’m always watching for comfort, regulation, and trust — not perfection.
And spoiler alert: kids almost always come back around once they feel safe and understood.
Mom-to-Mom Truth: This Is Real Life
As a mom, I know how stressful it can feel when you’re thinking,
“We paid for this session… why is my child doing this right now?”
But here’s the truth — these seasons are real.
One day, you’ll look back at these photos and remember not the chaos, but the way your child leaned into you, how small their hands were, or how hard you laughed together. Those are the moments worth holding onto.
Why My Background Matters (And Why It Helps Your Session)
I have been a pediatric speech-language pathologist for almost 15 years and am a certified Autism Friendly business.
That background taught me how to:
- Read a child’s cues
- Adjust expectations in the moment
- Create a calm, pressure-free environment
- Meet children exactly where they are
- Communicate at their level
It naturally shapes the way I photograph families — especially children who are shy, spirited, neurodivergent, or just having an off day.
There is no “wrong” way for your child to show up.
So… What If Your Kids Act Up?
Then we slow down.
We breathe.
We roll with it.
And you will still walk away with photographs that feel honest, connected, and deeply meaningful — images that reflect your family exactly as they are in this season.
Because the goal isn’t perfect behavior.
It’s remembering this chapter of your life — and I’ve got you 🤍
check out my website to learn more!
