Great Kid Shots
Lynne Eodice, August, 2003
When it comes to photographing kids, remember that they just want to have fun.
As children have a short attention span, you’ll get more-cooperative photo
subjects if they’re having a good time. Get involved with kids’
activities: play games with them, read stories, or whatever they’re doing
so that they get used to your presence, and can be themselves around you.
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When kids get together, you can get some great expressions from
them. Keep your compact camera handy, so you won’t miss
anything.
Photo by Andrew Maestas
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The right clothing and props can really make for a successful
photo session.
Photo by Wendee Wingfield
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You can also get great photos of kids when they’re unaware that you’re
taking pictures, or used to your camera’s presence. You can pose kids,
but it’s often better to have your point-and-shoot camera at your fingertips,
ready to capture their naturally cute expressions, antics, and playfulness.
If you keep your camera handy and use it often, a child is more likely to consider
it a normal part of life.
Since children are small, you’ll get best results when you move down to
their level to photograph them. Get down on your knees or even lie on your stomach.
This is the best way to get an idea of the world from their point of view, and
your pictures will reflect a more natural-looking perspective.
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If a child is doing an activity that he/she enjoys, you’ll
often have a cooperative photo subject.
Photo by Elizabeth Kislik
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There are times, however, when you may want to show a child from a different
view. For example, perhaps you’d like to show how small he/she is in an
adult world. The best way to do this is to shoot from above, either from a standing
position, or even by standing on a chair and shooting down on a child.
You’ll also want to use your built-in zoom lens on a moderate telephoto
setting (if it has one) to bring your young subjects in close. This will also
also allow you to keep your distance while shooting candids of kids. If you
don’t have a zoom or telephoto lens, you’ll need to move in close
if you want a more-intimate view. As with adults, you’ll get great results
when you fill the frame with your subject. Concentrate on keeping the child
the most important part of the picture. This will give you photos that really
call attention to your subject.
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By
getting on the child’s level and filling the frame with
your subject, you can capture some charming portraits (and fewer
background distractions).
Photo by Tina Mayne
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