I get it.
Taking pictures of your own kids can be challenging (especially if you’re a photographer)
They’re tired of having that camera in front of their face all the time.Â
They want to play.
They have other agendas
They don’t want you telling them what to do.
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So how are you ever going to get pictures of those most precious people in the world?
I’ll tell you what I do.
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First though, let me describe to you my three year old son. He’s the youngest of 4. He is VERY active, thrill seeking, resilient to pain. He is the child who has gotten kicked out of daycares (more than once). His pediatrician has suspected he might be somewhere on the ADHD spectrum ( but we are still waiting to see how he matures) . Needless to say, this boy is NOT an ideal model when it comes to taking photos.
But, I love him oh, so much, he is charming and beautiful and I want to capture him on camera! And I used these 5 simple strategies for taking his photo so I could get a great picture of him (he’s the little skateboarder!)
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Don’t Surprise Them With Them Idea
No one likes things thrown at them at the last minute. We like to know things ahead of time so we can prepare. Same with kids. If you want to take better pictures of your kids let them know early on. It will help them prepare themselves and understand what’s coming.
Let Them Wear Something Fun
Maybe it’s a costume or something they don’t get to wear often. Maybe go out and let them pick out an inexpensive accessory to wear. Let them wear a little lip gloss or nail polish. Let them be part of the process and how they’ll look.
Incorporate Something They Love
Do your kids like playing soccer, video games, painting, etc. Let them do that then in the photos! My little boy, loves skateboarding (and at 3, he’s actually pretty awesome at it.) For these shots I just let him bring it along.
Use Food
Sure, you could use it as a bribe them if they do a great job, but why not just incorporate it right in the photos! There are lots of foods that look cool in pictures. Get them a big lollipop, watermelon, ice cream cones or Popsicles.
Stay positive
As a parent or photographer we want to get those great pictures, while our kids want to do [insert anything else here]. WE can get frustrated with them. Do your best to not. Instead, pick up on the great things they are doing right away. Encourage them, smile and use lots of positivity!
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So there you have it! Give these strategies a try with your own kids and see how they come out!
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I would LOVE to hear a strategy you have for taking photos of your children. Let us all know in a comment below!
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Emily
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Hi Emily, absolutely love Ur tutorials. May I ask what speed do u shoot those awesome pictures of Ur son on skate board? And what trick do u use together him on sharp focus?
Thanks so much! Most of these were shot at 1/640 at 2.5 and 100 iso ??
Your photos are amazing! The people you photograph look like they stand out. How do you get that look? Is it the lens you use?
Thanks so much Vicki!My favorite lens to use is the 135mm 2.0, that does help me get a consistent look:)
My Suggestions:
Anticipate – try and second guess what they are about to do and where they are about to go. Then get your camera lined up and focused. e.g. You spot a puppy heading their way or a fallen log that is too irresistible not to climb.
Set traps – Don’t ask them to pose. be more subtle. e.g. Surprise them with a giant cardboard box, then say “I bet you can’t fit inside that!”
Great suggestions! Love your “traps” idea:)