Sunday, April 1, 2012

Spring Child Photographs

This week I had the absolute pleasure of taking a toddler's Easter/Spring portraits in the studio.  His formal Easter suit, along with the colorful Easter eggs, made for some beautiful pictures. 

As anyone who has photographed a toddler before knows, your timing must be just right.  Make sure you schedule your session after nap time and do not conflict with a snack or a meal.  This timing will allow you the best chance at cooperation.

To photograph a toddler in the studio you must have one person to act as the runner.  This can be an assistant or a parent.  There is almost a guarantee that the toddler will run off the backdrop.  The runner will be able to scoop the toddler up before they can reach any lighting or other equipment.  

A runner will be especially important if you decide to put the toddler on a chair like we did in the first picture.  Someone must be standing just outside the lens field of view ready to grab the toddler should they decide they no longer want to be sitting on the chair. 


In addition to the runner, be prepared to distract the child to gain their attention.  Songs, noises, and props can help with distraction.


With a toddler, you must be ready to work quickly.  You many only have a few seconds to take the picture before they decide to stand up and walk away.  Make sure that your camera is on continuous shooting and you are focused before the child is placed in the set.


Take-aways:

1) Ensure your lighting is properly metered and the studio is ready before the child arrives.  Every cooperative minute can then be used for photographing.

2) Photograph on the floor to be closer to the child's eye level.

3) If you do not have access to a studio, don't worry.  Springtime provides some beautiful flower and tree backdrop options outdoors.  Just be sure you find some shade to eliminate any harsh lighting.

4) Continue to photograph as the child is walking off the backdrop.  Some of the best pictures will happen at this time.  You can really capture the child's personality at this time.

Happy Photographing!

A few favorites:




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