7 tips to capturing the best photos of your kids
Let's face it, there is a reason they say let kids be kids! So why spoil it by making them do something they don't want to do or comes off as totally not them. I believe the best images of your kids are those that are free and real and raw. This is where you will look back and remember how they truly were. This is lifestyle photography at it's best
Here are my top 7 tips to what I do at a session with these free spirits we call kids!
1. FEED THEM FIRST
No one likes to be hangry not even me. Before any session starts, make sure your kids are well fed and rested too.
2. LET THEM RUN, JUMP AND BE WILD
My kids have the most energy as I am sure yours do too. Let them run and burn off the energy while you take some action shots. You will find that after a little while they will start to come in a state of tranquility and those can make for some beautiful portraits as well. Be patient with them and throw the rules out the window.
3. GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO DO
Always look for something that will make your child the happiest. It could be picking a flower or playing a game. It could be that they have a favourite stuffy they want to cuddle. These moments bring out raw emotions of joy and laughter and can be the best types of photos of your kids to capture.
4. ENCOURAGE SIBLING INTERACTION
I often ask the kids to do something with each other. Maybe touch their baby brothers nose or walk together holding hands or even tickle one another. If I am lucky I get the sweetest kisses and hugs. Kids are so in touch with their emotions and usually they love to show this kind of love. Very often however, I do get the little one running away from the older one. The trick is to capture the play and movements during these times.
5. REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY
This usually works on only certain ages of course but kids love doing things that they are not really suppose to do. They won't usually perform on demand or even show affection on demand so saying things like. "No don't kiss Daddy" or "No hugs for Mommy" will often get them doing it just to see your reaction.
6. SIMON SAYS
This game is fun! The other day I had a little boy and I said "Simon Says to put your hands on your eyes" and he did. Then I said, "Simon says, put your hands down!" well he touched the floor. So be careful not to be too literal haha. This game can work in your favour if you give direction well.
7. SHOW THEM THE CAMERA
This one I love because usually the kids want to see themselves. They are so intrigued by the camera and how they got there on that screen. I will show them their photo and then ask them to go back with mom and dad and I will show them again! It usually will work and can make some pretty cute photos of them looking at the camera too!
I hope you found some of these tips useful and will be able to take them out in the world of kid photography. It can be an exciting journey to just capture without any stress and have some fun!!
