Kids Photography

Taking photographs of their children is probably the most recurring catalyst in making people return to photography as a hobby, but it can at times become a daunting task.

Children quickly become “camera hams” and as soon as a camera appears put on their “camera face” which is not something usually desirable to photograph, or they tend to move so fast that it is difficult to capture them in focus or at the right moment. Thank goodness for digital!

There are some things, however, that you can do to make photographing kids, either yours or other peoples’, a more pleasant and successful experience.

• Make photographing them a normal part of their lives, which will in turn make them more comfortable when a camera is pointed their way.
  
• Be sure to preflight! Check your camera’s battery, ISO, aperture and shutter speed (which you should always do before using your camera).
  
• Get down on their level! Not only will it make easier for them, but will yield better results.
  
• Work quickly! Don’t expect you will have more than 5 minutes to do your shoot, unless you’re lucky.
  
• Don’t try to control the situation. Relax and go with it.
  
• Use natural light. Think Golden Hour! Don’t use flash unless you’re doing a studio type setup with proper lighting package.
  
• Hand hold your camera. Don’t use a tripod.
  
• Give them a prop. A favorite toy or something to distract their attention from having their picture taken. Or have them do something they like doing.
  
• Never tell them to smile, but give them something to smile about. Don’t try to pose them.
  
• Fill the frame - get in close.
  
• Be ready by half pressing the shutter button to lock focus if possible.
  
• If the child is shy, be quiet and let them respond to you.
• Let them enjoy themselves.
  

Above all, try to make it enjoyable by getting involved and having fun yourself. Hey, it’s digital! Your keeper ratio will likely be lower than with shooting other subjects, but there is no cost, so relax and have fun.

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