Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Tips on Photographing Kids

By SFXsource

Children are rarely shy of the camera, and they are a lot of fun to photograph. Start thinking like a kid before you begin. Let simple things inspire you, and be awed by everything. Below are tips to help you take amazing photographs of kids.

1. You will want to get on their level, so either get on the ground or bend down. If you photograph children from you above, you might make them feel threatened. By photographing them from below, you elevate them.

2. Photograph children with their friends and family. It's always interesting to see how children interact with one another and how they interact with their parents and siblings. You will want children to get comfortable with you and the camera so you may want to begin by photographing them with their parents.

3. Don't forget to be patient. Photographing children is difficult, but don't get frustrated. They will need snacks and short rests. It's important not to rush the session, and keep photographing them even when you don't think they are doing anything interesting.

4. Children's eyes and expressions are priceless. Photograph how they react to the world around them. Ask them to make funny faces or happy faces. See if they will lean into the camera and look right at you.

5. Take children to a new location such as a new park or playground. Watch them explore and document how they react to the new environment. Outdoor lighting is the best light, and you will get soft light before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.

6. Relax. Children can sense fear, and if you are nervous they will be uncomfortable. If you are having fun, so will they. Bring props such as toys or games, and food is also not a bad idea.

Children may need some direction, but they will usually have more fun when they can be themselves. The best part about photographing children is that you never know what they will do, so always be prepared to capture unexpected moments. Posed pictures are not bad, but candid ones usually produce the best results. - 15437

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