Free Photography Advice from Sydney photographer Lauren Walker.

6:04 pm in Motherhood, Toddlers, newborn babies by Sonya

How to take photos of little boys (and the occasional little girl!)

Hi, my name is Lauren Walker, from Tiger Lily Photography - im a family portrait photographer, based in Sydney, and working all over NSW.  I take photos of kids of all ages – from squishy newborn babies to smiling 6 month old sitting up for the first time; from 1 year olds learning to walk to 2 year olds learning to say no; from 3 year olds exploring the world to five year olds telling me what to do; and from 6 year olds who just want to please, to 12 year olds who are just ‘too cool’.... and every age inbetween!

Im also the mother of a 16 month old little boy, who is starting to get very determined, runs when he sees the camera – so I know a lot about the word NO!

Here are a few tips to get the best out of photographing your kids.... J

* Play Silly Buggers. This ‘game’ will depend on your kids age, but often I try tickling and playing ‘peek-a-boo’ with the kids first. Or asking them to find Thomas or Dora in the camera. In the photo below I pretended I was sneezing.... little Zac here wouldn’t stop laughing at me!


* Let there be light... natural light. Take your kids outside, turn the flash off your camera, and position your kids so they’re not looking into the sun (to avoid squinting, and to get some gorgeous backlighting).  If outdoors isn’t an option, open the blinds and let some lovely natural light into your house.


* Props, Props, Props. When kids are occupied, they’re normally really still (or at least not running around as much), and therefore easier to photograph. You won’t necessarily get photos of your child looking at the camera, but often they’re the best photos – see below.


* The closer the better. Some of the best photos of children are the ones where the camera has zoomed right in, and focused on the childs eyes (or eye lids, in the below photo!).  And, as you can see from the photo below, even when they’re throwing a tantrum, it can be super cute!



* The rule of thirds. A classic photography ‘rule’, but basically it means don’t always centre your child in the photo – try moving the camera so your child is to one side. These photos always look terrific blown up really big – a lovely lounge room canvas even!


* Belly Baby. As soon as a baby is happy on his or her belly, and starts to lift their head, get the camera ready! This is such a gorgeous age, and not one to miss!


* Get Down. As kids are little, you sometimes need to get down to their level. Lay on the floor, so you’re eye to eye to each other (tip – this one is good exercise, as kids often get up and run when you least expect it!)


* Family Time. For family photos, try positioning your family where you want them to be, shoot a few frames, and when you’re happy, set your camera to your timer setting, and jump in there. Or call me….. please mention this article for 10% off your session fee J


Happy Shooting!

Lauren Walker

Tiger Lily Photography: Simple, Beautiful Photography

m. 0416 006 779

p:  02 8824 7895

f:   02 8824 6266

e. lauren@tigerlilyphotography.com....au

w. www.tigerlilyphotography.com.au

b. www.tigerlilyphotography.com.au/blog

f. www.facebook.com/tigerlilyphotography ** become a fan! **

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