Here's how we got amazing shots in our recent family shoot in Sequoia, California.
Family photoshoots are a joyous occasion, but it can be a pretty challenging event.
This can also prove to be a challenge to photographers as well, especially if you’re not used to dealing with children under the age of ten. Whatever the case, capturing beautiful, candid photos of children can be a rewarding experience for any photographer.
Here are some tips to help you take great photos of children:
Get down to their level
One of the most important things to remember when taking photos of children is to get down to their level. This means getting on your knees or even lying on the ground to capture photos at the same eye level as the kids. This will help create a more intimate and personal connection in the photos.
Use natural light
Children tend to be more relaxed and natural in front of the camera when they are in natural light. Try to take advantage of outdoor locations or find a well-lit indoor space to photograph the children. This will help create a softer and more flattering look in the photos.
Be patient
Children can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be patient when taking photos. They may not always follow your instructions or pose exactly how you want them to, so be ready to adapt and go with the flow. It's better to capture a genuine and candid moment than to force a posed photo.
You also may have a lot of downtime during a photoshoot. Don't rush the kids and just let them explore their surroundings so they can get more comfortable in front of the camera.
Get their attention
Children can have short attention spans, so it's important to find ways to keep them engaged and focused during the photo shoot. You could try making silly faces, using fun props, or singing a song to get their attention.
Get to know the children
One of the most important things you can do to take great photos of children at weddings or family shoots is to get to know them. Spend some time chatting with them before the wedding to find out what they like, what makes them laugh, and what they're interested in. This will help you connect with them and get them to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Use props and games
Children often respond well to props and games, so consider using these to engage them during the photo shoot. This could be something as simple as a balloon or a stuffed animal, or you could play a game of "red light, green light" to get them moving.
In our case, the Sequoia park was enough to keep them entertained so that they can explore their surroundings. We visited a variety of places and interacted with different domesticated animals in the area.
Encourage interaction
Children often respond well to interaction, so try asking them to do something with their hands or engage with their surroundings. This can help bring more life and personality to the photos and make them feel more involved in the process.
In the photo album below, you'll see that the children were interacting with ducks and goats. They also had some sensory experience with lots of crushed leaves and the sound of animals.
Taking photos of children can be a challenging, but also a rewarding experience. With a little patience and creativity, you can capture beautiful and memorable photos that will be treasured for years to come.