PORTRAIT AND CANDID PHOTOGRAPHY: PHOTO WORKSHOP

Chapter 7. KIDS

• Direct the Kids

• Keep It Real

• Frame the Shot

Kids are a lot of fun to photograph, because they have myriad expressions, emotions, and energy. On the flip side, sometimes they have short attention spans and can be uncooperative and cranky, so it's important to understand how to prepare for taking a great picture. Kids also grow up quickly, but with the following tips, you can make the most of recording those unexpected, fleeting moments and capture priceless memories for the future.

Family portraits of children at different ages offer opportunities and challenges. You can capitalize on the natural dynamic between them, but you really need to be watchful for the special moments that occur. Siblings can interact positively or negatively, revealing a lot about their relationship. In this chapter, not only do you learn some great ways to work with kids, you learn to recognize these kinds of moments and capture them yourself.

DIRECT THE KIDS

When you are directing kids in a photo shoot, it's important to have an understanding of their particular needs, given their ages and individual temperaments. Find ways to help them relax in front of the camera — perhaps making jokes about their interactions with and reactions to each other or other members of the family. These siblings in figure 7-1 had fun rolling around in the sand and laughing at their mom. She was right behind me making ...