8 Tips for Photographing Children

Children are such ever-changing creatures, growing up quickly as each stage of childhood folds into the next. Capturing images of youngsters can often be difficult, and there is no exact science. That said, there are some very helpful approaches that will assist in cataloguing wonderful memories. Here are eight ideas to focus your efforts and produce amazing results. 

1. Take action photos 

Aiming your camera at a child when they don’t know their photo is being taken is the first recommendation. A young one who is lost in thought or wide eyed in amazement at a new discovery is a beautiful sight. The wonderment and delight they’re experiencing will come across in all its honesty with a spontaneous shot. 

Plus, while older children may be a bit easier to pose, any youngster will quickly tire of the whole planned photographing process. They’re apt to fuss and frown and you’ll lose your chance at taking an appealing photograph. 

2. Talk to them 

Start by establishing a connection with the child. Asking them a few questions can put them at ease. Aim to engage with them about a subject they might want to talk about. Maybe they’ve got a toy in tow and you can to express curiosity about where they got it, whether it’s a favorite and the like. Be sure not to stand over them, perhaps sitting on the floor or a low stool next to them so you can communicate with one another at eye level. 

3. Explain the process 

Tell your young subjects about what’s involved in taking their photograph. Show them your camera and maybe thumb through a few other photos you’ve taken as examples. Let them touch your camera and find out if there’s anything else they want to know. You can talk about the end product and ask if they have any suggestions, too. 

4. Take your time 

Tune in to the needs of the youngster and make sure that they appear to be settled before you begin the photo session. You can ask them if they’re ready and offer a break if they get restless or just want to release a bit of energy between poses. You might introduce a bit of silliness to show them it’s alright to play and have fun in the situation. On the flip side, remember that children can tire and lose interest pretty quickly so you don’t want to drag things out too long. There’ll be plenty of time back at your studio or home to review the photos you’ve taken. 

5. Use a prop or two 

Finding something interesting to include in the shot can make for a unique result. Some props may introduce a story and pique the viewer’s curiosity. An indoor photo shoot can incorporate a blanket, pillow, doll, teddy bear or similar item. These can also be used in an outdoor environment, or something nearby can be selected. Think of your subject examining a flower in the garden or fingering sea shells on the beach. In addition, props can be used to distract the child and increase your chances of getting a more candid shot. 

6. Experiment with natural light 

Photographing little ones outdoors can result in terrific takes. The interplay of natural light and shadows gives lots of scope to experiment. Shooting outside can help to capture spellbinding images of your young models that brings out their emotion at the time. The light just after the sun rises in the morning and just before it sets in the evening has a softer quality, perfect for producing standout shots. These times are referred to as the golden hours. 

7. Purposefully pick a location 

The right location for taking pictures of your subject can enhance the final product. Although your background may be blurred to emphasize the child’s image, it still requires a bit of forethought. You’ll want to think of a landscape or close up backdrop that will really bring to life the shot you’re looking for and assist the portrait image to stand out. A brick wall, for example, or the side of a weathered wooden building can add detail while not taking anything away from the pose. 

8. Keep shooting 

To ensure that you’re recording all of those fleeting moments, just keep on taking photos, one after another. This will reveal a range of lovely unscripted moments as the youngster interacts with their surroundings. With a steady stream of offerings, you’re bound to find one or more incredible photographs that will reveal the child’s personality to a tee. 

Finally 

Seeing the world though the eyes of a young one is priceless. If you want to really replicate on film the experience a child has as they encounter what’s around them, involve them in the event, take your time, experiment with lighting, props, and location and zero in on how the youngster behaves when fully absorbed in what they’re doing.