Toddler group tend to be a low cost morning out with the children. Normally they are between 1 or 2 pounds, to include a snack and drink. They can keep costs low because volunteers organise the group, and some groups, such as church groups, don’t have to pay for the building. However there are always costs to cover, such as new toys, new batteries, snacks and drinks, even if rent of the building isn’t needed. It can be difficult to keep finances under control, because it is not guaranteed how many families will turn up each week.
This is partly where my vision for toddler group photography came from. When looking at how I can make photography accessible to families I could see that toddler groups are a part of many parents regular weekly activities. By bringing my studio into a toddler group I can be in a place where children regularly go, and so it is minimum effort for the families. However for the organisers they will need to book a date with me, as well as mention the photoshoot to the families in the week or two before the event. There will also be a couple of posters they can display at their group if they wish. So while it is not much work it is still extra things to think about, which can feel hard work. By changing the photo shoot to a fundraising opportunity for the organisers the amount of work then gets compared to other fundraising events that they hold, and then the work seems very low for the funds received.
Having regularly attended toddler groups for the last 7 years I am glad that I have found a way to help toddler groups, as part of my working life.