Mandy & Trever

      

     

     

     

      

     

    

Photographing Children

(I took so many pictures of children last week that I got inspired to write this post).

         

It is always a challenge to take pictures of children. Even the ones who like to have their picture taken.

So here are a few tips that I use when I am photographing children:

1.Make sure you are in a good mood. It is incredible how children sense when you are not being sincere, and that can sometimes scare them.

2.Play with them before asking them to stare at your camera. It’s your trade.

3.Always use continuous shooting. Do I even have to explain why?

4.Get close, especially when it comes to small children. It is really hard and not natural at all when you are asking them to pose. And you can tickle them to make them laugh.

5.Don’t MAKE them smile. Different from adults, children are all about truth. If they aren’t happy they are not going to smile until you find a way to make them happier.

6.Don’t yell at them because they aren’t cooperating. That is just going to make them cry, and you photo session will be over.

7.Use some kind of distraction. Make a fool of yourself. I always put my diffuser on my head – it is pretty embarrassing, but it works. – Just a warning: don’t use toys, especially the kid’s toys. Otherwise, they will want to hold it for every picture.

8.Show them the pictures in your camera. That always works! Older children get so excited that they start making great poses just so they can see pictures.

9.Be patient. If the child doesn’t want to take pictures, wait a second. Make them comfortable. Show them what to do, and get to know them too.

10.When delivering your pictures, make sure to show the child the ones you took of him/her. They will love it!

Camila’s 8th Birthday

     

       

   

 

The Melo Family