Living in a small Argentinian town has limited my photography subjects to the often requested toddler shoot, initially not a task I would feel up to, partly due to the fact that I would be photographing toddlers...
However, I came to the pleasant realisation that photographing toddlers is possibly one of the most rewarding shoots you can do. Toddlers aged between 1 and 3 are still genuine in their emotions and behaviour, making the shoot majority of the time pure joy.
It is all in the eyes, these little guys have life shining from their eyes, and it up to you to try and capture it. I find that shooting from above allows for more light, and it forces the child to open their eyes a little more than usual.
If the shoot is a set-up request, where the folks want a pacifically posed photograph; keep it short and sweet. Little ones get bored very quickly, especially when they are expected to sit still and pose for a photograph. Have your equipment set-up and ready to shoot, you may only have a couple of minutes or less.
If the request is that of fun portraits, let the child run. He or she will give you ample opportunities to capture their joy, smiles and honesty. Have their favourite toys at hand; playing with a ball or peddle-car encourages laughter. The other option is to meet at a park catered for kids with swings etc.
If the child is just not in to the shoot, you have 3 option; come back another day, or wait a while, maybe they relax and you can continue shooting, or take a moment and chill with the child, let them get to know you and get comfortable with you.
Always have tissues with you, just in-case there is a bit of spit or a runny nose...
Generally I rely on natural light when shooting little ones, sometimes with the help of a reflector though. When shooting inside, and there is no natural light coming from outside, I will use a stand alone flash with umbrella.
I do find the way you approach shooting toddlers has a huge affect on how the shoot will go, for instance if you are ill or not in the right frame of mind to deal with kids on that exact day, postpone the shoot. The happier you are, the happier the kid will be.
Photographing kids is a blessing, enjoy it.
No comments:
Post a Comment