1. Try a new perspective
The average photo of a child is taken from the parents eye-level pointing down. A different angle can create a more interesting photograph. Kneel or sit so you can photograph your child at their eye-level. Then try more extreme perspectives. Lay in the grass and shoot up. Stand on a stool & shoot down. Mix it up and have fun!
2. Look for good light
Good light is essential for a great portrait. Try taking photos of your child during the “golden hour”, which is the first and last hour of sunlight, when the light is soft and flattering. Cloudy days also provide soft, flattering light.
In the middle of the day, when the sun is directly overhead, you have to work harder to avoid harsh shadows on the face. During this time of day, look for open shade to block the bright sun.
When indoors, try turning off your flash and letting in natural light. Face your subject toward a window to light up their eyes and cast soft light across their face.
3. Capture real smiles
Skip saying cheese & photograph a real smile. Photograph your child playing and you will have many opportunities to capture a truly joyful moment. It can be hard to capture the perfect moment while it happens. Pre-focusing can help speed up the reaction time. Press the shutter button half way to focus on your subject. Once you are ready to take the picture, your camera will click much faster.
