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Capturing your Child's Spirit in your photographs.

November 28, 2008

Using your camera to capture your children is the easiest way to record memories and moments. If you are like me though, you need all the help you can get in the way of tutorials and help!

I have invited a panel of four area photographers to weigh in on their area of expertise and provide us novice moms with some tips on capturing our little ones' childhoods.

First on deck?

Dawn Bebout of DHB Photography
(serving Northeast Ohio, 440.543.1628)

Dawn offers her thoughts on how to capture your child's spirit:

Here are a few tips on how to get those "Wow!" photos of your child!

Timing is important. Take pictures in the morning or after a nap. Pick a time of day when you know your child is in his/her best mood.

Compose yourself. You gotta get ready for those great shots prior to the child even getting in the frame. Think about how well your picture is designed, your composition; think about and use your child's surroundings to make more interesting pictures.

Take a look at the background and make sure there isn't a garbage can or an ajar door right behind them, avoid having a plant looking as if it is growing out of their head.

Often you will find you have a great picture of your child only to realized later the pile of laundry right behind them

Engage your child , ask questions. When children are engaged their most natural looks tend to come shining through. When you ask questions that make them think they will often give you those looks that when you see the picture you say "that's my kid!".

Start simple. For example:

What's your favorite color?
Why is the grass green?
What do you think bugs think about?

Sometimes they will get really creative and cute and you'll probably always remember taking the shot later.

Let your child be the director. Forget about saying "cheese" and telling them how to pose. Follow their lead and be prepared to capture "the moment".

Have a helper, whether it is a person or a prop!! Have someone stand behind you when you are taking pictures to entertain and provoke emotion. Or, have a toy or stuffed animal that you know makes him/her smile.

Keep it short - as you know, you are limited when it comes to your child's attention span. Be prepared and bring the shoot to an end when you think they have had enough.

Get on your child's level. This may mean that you have to get on your knees or belly. Trust me it is worth it. You will get a much more natural look.

For more information about Dawn's photography, visit her at DHB Photography.