Childrens Outdoor Portraits
Tips from a Pro
Photographing children can be challenging if they're between the ages of one and four years old. Kids this age are usually not cooperative for a photographer because they do not want to sit still. A few years ago, I changed my strategy from indoor studio portraits to outdoor candid, lifestyle portraits. It has been a win-win situation for all involved; the kids have more fun, the parents aren't stressed and I make money. I don't want to make photographing children sound too easy however. Here are some children's outdoor portrait tips to capture those magical moments. Tip #1- Invest in a digital SLR camera and learn how to use the manual controls. Ditch the point and shoot. The main advantage of using a DSLR is the lack of shutter lag so you can stop action. The manual controls found in digital SLR cameras enable you to select faster shutter speeds and stop action. You will be able to capture a child's playfulness and spontaneity better with an SLR camera. Tip #2- Choose a location that the child is familiar with. This will help alleviate the anxiety of being in a strange place. Your own backyard or a nearby park are often the best choices. Tip #3 - Choose a time of day when the lighting is lowest to the horizon. The best time to take photographs is early in the day, 1 -2 hours after sunrise, and at the endof the day 1-2 hours before sunset. I prefer the "sweet light" approximately 30 minutes before sunset (especially if I am at the beach). Shoot with the sun on the subject's back (back lighting) and use a fill flash to fill in the shadows which adds a sparkle to the eyes. You can also try side light, however you will need a large reflector to add highlights to the shadow side of the face. Avoid having your subject look into the sun which can cause squinting. Shade and clouds provide excellent filtered lighting. Tip #4 - Photograph children in relaxed and natural poses. Known in the industry as an interpretive pose, it can be a child picking up a stone, looking at a flower, looking at siblings, jumping or playing. Photographing life is what you will remember most about your child. If you are a professional your clients will appreciate your insight and creativity. In summary, photographing children requires a DSLR camera where you control the shutter speed (shutter priority). Learn how to use the best lighting so your photographs are lit well, and the subject is not squinting looking into the sun. Use your eye (the creative side) to compose your image and portray it as a story. Photography is a creative and rewarding hobby/career involving both the right and left sides of the brain. Learn how to use both and you will produce amazing portraits of children.
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