While I specliazine in architectural and real estate photography I thought it would be fun to depart from my typical topic and talk a little bit about working with kids. :)
I began my career working with children and there are days I really miss that type of work. Also, I think it keeps us fresh to work outside our primary area (no matter what field you are in).
On that note I'll cover a few of the basics:
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1. Get in Close!
The number one common 'problem' I see with snapshots of kids and family is that the photographer is too far away from the subject to capture the nuance & emotion of the subject. Don't be afraid to get right in there with your subject. Children are especially great to practice this with as they are often much less self conscious than their adult counterparts. A good rule of thumb is to give the face at least 40-50% of the total frame.
2. Use limited Depth of Field (DOF)
If you are using an DSLR or similar type of camera you are fortunate in that you have a wealth of choices in how to construct a given photo. One of the most powerful tools is the ability to control the Aperture. This allows for a number of different capabilities but for the moment we are going to cover Depth of Field, or DOF, also known as boke [Japanese] (sometimes you'll also see this term mis-spelled as 'bokeh').
A large aperture (small number) lets a lot of light into the lens quickly but only has a narrow field of focus. As a result we can get a very sharp focus directly on our subject and at the same time produce a creamy out of focus area that recedes into the distance. I generally suggest you start somewhere between f2.8 through f1.2 (f1.2 is going to be a very narrow field of focus btw). When shooting portraiture you'll almost always want to make sure your focus point is the eyes (or near the eyes).
3. Know your Focal Length
The focal length of a given lens is also an important consideration in portrait photography (well, any kind of photography really). Generally speaking, 'portrait lenses' are going to reside between 50mm and 125mm (sometimes as far out as 200mm)...and there's a good reason for this. :)
All lenses (and I mean all) impart some type of distortion to an image (or more than one type!). Fortunately when it comes to photos of faces, the distortion common in portrait lenses is often helpful and tends to be flattering to facial structure (no kidding!).
4. Keep your Camera Handy
Kids are nothing if not dynamic...and that's probably putting it mildly. If you are trying to capture images of children keep your camera with you and easily accessible any time you think there's a chance you might get some good shots. The one time you leave it at home will be the time the kids are being extra cute. Also, remember to keep fresh batteries with you!
5. Take lots of Shots!
A lot of people I've bumped into are unnecessarily hard on themselves when it comes to their photography skills. Particularly when it comes to taking a ton of shots to produce a few 'keepers'. I'll let you in on a little secret. Professionals typically take a lot more than they 'need' also! This is especially true when working a subject as variable as a child.
6. Be Patient
Good advice for just about any project, it applies double here when working with kids. Keep in mind that children tend to do what they like despite our best intentions. :)
7. Have fun!
Finally, enjoy yourself and be sure your little ones have fun too. Both of you will be more willing to participate again and chances are good you will appreciate the photos more as well.
Cheers, -Bryce Mohan
Seattle-Real-Estate-Photography
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