Whenever one of you fabulous moms ask me for tips on how to take lifestyle photos of your children, I go through millions of stories. You know why? Because when you are photographing children, there is no dull moment. I am pretty sure I go through all kind of emotions especially when I am running out of time on a project. The results might be cute and adorable, but this mama had to learn the hard way that kids will be kids and you must oblige.
Before I give you my 5 Tips to take lifestyle photos of your children I must tell you a little story too. When my kids were young, I took pictures of them just for our family. At that time I was not interested in putting them online because I wanted to keep those moments of their lives for me. As they started to grow and see mom taking photos for her job, they began to take an interest in photography. By the time I started sharing their photos online, my skills were much better. I knew how to compose, find the light, and edit. Their pictures do not have to be perfect but good enough to be posy online so that they are proud of mama when they grow up.
Ok, enough about me! Let’s get to why you are here, tips to take lifestyle photos of your Children.
TIP #1: Patience
Before you decide to capture beautiful lifestyle photos of your family, you must learn to be patient. Be ready for anything! Kids are on their own time, and they hold trophies for getting their parents to go through all kind of emotions. There are days when they are not in the mood so don’t rush or force it. I have had my fair share of pouty faces, mumblings, and crying over the years. Put the camera down and move on to something else if it’s not the right day. There was a time when my oldest was on strikes. He refused to be on camera and I respected that. If you go through some my older posts you will notice that my youngest was more present. Slowly he came back and was ok taking photos again. Patience and time is the best advice even a photographer would give you.
My husband took this shot of my son and I having a laugh about this particular apple shaped like a bum. The emotion of his face says it all.
TIP#2 Candid Shots
Kids are often at their cutest when they don’t realize that they’re being photographed. That’s why it’s important to take your camera everywhere. Easy, candid shot ideas could be their morning or night routine, while they are reading their books, playing with legos, running around the house, fixing their beds, doing their homework or chores. The opportunities are endless.
TIP#3: Entertain with props
I like to give my kids something to do, hold or give them something to play with. The tablet and 3DS work wonder for us. The moment they get the hold of them they forget about what’s happening around them. In case they have to hold products for sponsored posts, I always make sure it’s products they can use. Food shots are even better, especially when the food is delicious.
TIP #4 Let them be in control and go with the flow
Have you ever tried to make your kids do something they do not enjoy? Helllllo tantrum. This tip goes hand in hand with the candid shots. By allowing them to take control of the shoot, they come up with their ideas. Something as little as choosing between two pairs of shoes can make a huge difference. As long as they are having fun, you will be able to take great photos. Let them run, scream, be silly, dance and jump! For instance, in the picture above my son asked me if he could jump. I was not sure if that was a good idea, but it ended up being a beautiful shot.
TIP #5 Be in the photo with them
Some children are more comfortable with one or both parents while capturing the pictures. Set up your tripod and get in front of it. Interact with your child while the camera is snapping away. Put on their favorite music, make jokes, talk about their favorite toys and make them laugh.
I hope you loved this post because I do have a few other tips to take lifestyle photos of your Children. Stay tuned for a part two.
While you’re here make sure to check out all my favorite new plus size items currently on sale.
