Table of Contents
Be confident.
This is key when you are photographing children. They can spot if you are not comfortable and will react accordingly. So, get into a relaxed position and try not to move. If you feel nervous, children will too. Remember, you are capturing their true selves, not how they think you want them to look.
Ask questions.
Take the time to explain what you are doing to your children. Explain the poses to them, why you are taking the pictures, and what you will do with the photos afterwards. This can be an effective way of letting them know they will be on display for the world to see. It also helps prevent them from getting nervous when it’s their turn to have their photo taken.
Give your children choices.
Encourage them to do what they want to do in the photo. For instance, ask them to stand on a particular stool or chair, sit on a sofa, lie on a bed, stand under a table or walk along a path. If they prefer to sit, make sure the pose is comfortable. Try sitting in a chair that has soft padding. Encourage your children to be themselves in the photos. This is the best way to ensure they look natural and are comfortable.
Look into their eyes.
It can be difficult to focus when children are laughing and giggling. However, this is a good opportunity to get some great images. To ensure you capture the child’s eye, smile into the camera lens. This will help you achieve the desired effect. You may also want to ask your child to look at the camera. This can give a nice expression.
Keep your distance.
When you are taking photos of your kids, keep a safe distance. This will ensure the poses are clear and you don’t scare your children. You can get close enough to put your arms around them, but keep your arms out of the frame.
Have a focal point.
Children’s poses tend to be busy, so it can be difficult to get a good image. The most effective pose is one with a clear focal point. For example, your child can be standing against a background with lots of flowers or props. A focal point ensures you can photograph the child in a single, clear pose.
Use props.
Children love playing with props. Try using a variety of props, such as a bike, ball, beach ball, teddy, or a toy boat. They can also use toys such as cars, a doll, or a toy truck. Use a variety of props and encourage your children to play with them. This will make your photos more interesting.
Take your time.
When you are photographing toddlers and children, you need to be patient. They will be fidgety, especially if they are excited about having their photos taken. If they become frustrated, they may even cry. It’s important to make sure your children stay in one position for longer than just a few seconds. Keep taking the photos until you are happy with the final result.
Make sure you’ve got the light.
When taking photos of children, make sure you have the right lighting. For example, use diffusers, umbrellas or reflectors to soften the light. If your children are playing outdoors, it can be difficult to get good lighting. If you are outside, use a tripod and take some test shots in different locations. This will help you decide where to place the children.
Remember, family portraits are often about capturing your children’s personality. When it comes to taking your child’s portrait, get creative, use props and make the most of your child’s personality.