Photographers have goofy little tricks to get toddlers to look at the camera. One of mine is pretending there’s something silly or interesting behind my back, which usually gets the toddler to look in the general direction of my camera and voila! Family photo gold.

This little guy, let me tell you. He might be the most Minnesotan toddler that ever lived.

Me [in babyish voice]: “Hey buddy, do you see a birdie behind me?!”

Him [totally serious]: “No, but there is a pontoon.”

Also, five minutes later.

Me [again, in babyish voice]: “Oh gosh what do you think that sound is bud, a birdie?”

Him [again, in deadpan voice]: “It’s a loon.”

At this point I realize I’m dealing with a real professional and just cut the baby talk. He, sensing that he’s being treated like the adult he is, cooperates beautifully and smiles nice and big for the camera. Even gives his baby brother a kiss that doesn’t involve a choke hold or slobber, which is BIG in terms of toddler to baby kisses at family photography sessions.

Moral of the story? Minnesota toddlers are the best, bar none.

Oh and the gorgeous mom and dad, plus cute baby brother, and lovely Minnesota summer evening on the lake aren’t too shabby either <3

Have your own Minnesota lake place or cabin you want to capture? Or just a hilarious toddler that needs their adorable mug photographed for posterity’s sake? Email me today to grab a spot before summer is gone!