Kids are a challenge to photograph.
But the challenge can be fun!
Here are 5 tips that I use on a daily basis—at work and at home to capture the best image possible.
Tip 1: Light
Photography is all about capturing light—and the best light will give you the best image.
So I challenge you to take a look around your house at different times of the day. Where and when does the best light shine in?
Once you have a mental log of this great light— make it a point to play in that spot and click away!
Tip 2: Cheese!
Yes, some cheesy smiles are super cute— but it’s the real smiles you can hear the laughter all the way through the picture.
What makes your little one giggle? Is it talking about their favorite flavor of ice cream, how much their little brother or sister is stinky, or is it playing peek-a-boo, being a tickle monster, or just asking them to make a funny noise?
Find what works and play with it. I’m sure you will get a genuine smile in no time.
Tip 3: Move
Kids don’t like to sit still.
So why make them?
Try taking a walk outside and exploring their environment. Too cold to go outside? Just tell them to jump, kick, or twirl. This combined with your great light will give you a great shot.
Tip 4: Details
Kids seem to grow by the foot before you know it. Don’t forget to capture all of the little details.
It can be as simple as a curl on the back of their neck, little fingers wrapped around their favorite toy, little toes, and sweet puckered lips as they nap.
All of these shots are just as important as the big ones.
Tip 5. Always be ready.
If anyone of you know me personally, you know I always have my camera close by. You don’t need anything fancy to capture a special moment. A simple phone camera will do!
So I’m always ready—usually with my phone in my back pocket. It’s always ready and with one click I can capture the image.
They will only play with something so long, jump so high, hold your hand for that one instant, and play for so long.
AND That’s It!
I hope these 5 tips help you capture the best images of your little ones on a regular basis.
It’s always nice to look back and see how much they have grown, how much they learned, and were loved on every day.
Always be ready and prepared and you’ll have memories that last a lifetime— in no time!
Hopetwentytwo Photography 