I’ve been blessed to photograph a lot of kids. Having 2 of my own, I feel right at home being silly and making up words to songs. Even the children who need a little time and are wary of me at first, most of them come around and have fun with me in the end. I have found there are some definite things that can help capture the personality of a child, and in looking at my most recent family sessions, I thought I would list some of what I used here.
- Action! This can be your best friend! Many kids, especially if they are young, don’t want to get held down and tortured on a blanket and asked to smile. Get them moving, and you will see that little personality blossom, right in front of the lens.
- Involve them. Ask them to find you 5 pinecones, or the biggest leaf or largest seashell. The challenge and desire that kids have to succeed is joyful and will come through.
- Give them time. There are definitely children who are more introverted. They want to feel safe and will often cling to Mom and Dad. That’s ok. Use different angles, play peek-a-boo, and be ok with getting photographs without smiles. Those tell a story too.
- Never put down your camera. Be ready for all the in between moments. As you all know, those are some of my favorites 🙂