Like any mom I’m always on the lookout for tricks to make the photos I take of my child truly reflect how cute and special she can be. Children just don’t always cooperate, do they? I thought I would share a few pointers I have gathered to improve those home photos.
Lighting:
The best light is natural light, especially the time just after sunrise or right before sunset. The midday sun causes harsh shadows, and a squinting child is not as cute! For indoor shots try placing your child near a window, or setting up additional lights to reduce shadows.
Preparing the space:
When taking a ‘posed’ shot keep the area clear, so you and your baby can move around easily. Keep it simple; using a solid color blanket is always a good backdrop.
Personality:
No matter what your child’s personality might be, you always want to capture a moment that truly reflects your child. If you have a stubborn youngster (like mine) a smile may not be in the cards. Try for that perfect candid shot, when your baby is truly engaged with an activity. You may not get a shot looking directly at the camera, but the lens might capture that peaceful little angel you know and love. When children are really excited you may catch the smile, but watch those quick movers you might get an image that is blurry. Many point-and-click cameras have a setting for action – you get a better chance to truly ‘capture the moment!’ For little babies try catching them while sleeping, you can even pose them and really catch a sweet expression. For older children pull out the camera when it is their ‘best time of day’ – don’t wait until they are tired.
Practice:
Great photographers take many photos to get the perfect shot. As an amateur you need to keep on clicking – including shots from all different angles, with different lighting and experimenting with setting you haven’t tried out on your camera. Zoom in on hands, feet and eyes or try coaxing a natural expression by asking them to show you a favorite toy.
Just remember…Have Fun!
Le Top blog 
What great ideas! I have a stubborn child that doesn’t like to smile for many people. I may just start becoming my own photographer.
I’m happy you enjoyed the tips. I was pleasantly surprised how well it worked out with my stubborn child.
Dawn and Dusk has always been my favorite time to photograph. A good photographer friend of mine told me to shoot in these times and your pictures will almost always come out right. The other key is to make sure your light and shutter settings are set correctly for that time of day. I usually shoot at 5.6 and 125- I think….it’s been a while since I have used my manual camera (as opposed to my point and shoot). Most camera’s have a light meter though- which will help you.
Great tips, TC! I never thought about taking pictures just after sunrise or right before sunset. Good to know!