Candid childhood
A series of natural portraits celebrating the magic of childhood, selected from my portfolio of documenting families
At the heart of my work is a passion for photographing people, and particularly children, as is the focus of these images. Childhood is a time of confusing wonder – these formative years are a first glimpse of our intrinsic nature. It’s a time in our lives when we openly display our emotions as we feel them, with no filter. This unguarded exterior comes naturally to children, which I aim to capture, celebrate and draw out with my photographic work. To this end I find the documentary style works best.
As a silent observer one can shed light on the hidden beauty, the nuances, of a subject’s everyday interaction with their surroundings. In these times I encourage them to act is if the camera isn’t present. During a shoot, rather than meticulously directing, I concentrate my attention on keeping everyone engaged. It’s this personable approach through which one can build a rapport, thus creating a comfortable and familiar environment – one in which the subject is relaxed, creating room for those unexpected moments, natural expressions and smiles!
Photographing children has its own unique challenges; they are sometimes unpredictable in their behaviour and lose interest quickly. However, the amount of energy they bring to a shoot is great, and if channelled correctly these moments can be transformed into memorable portraits.
Photographing children has its own unique challenges; they are sometimes unpredictable with their behaviour
In Jem’s Gaze the striking linear background leads the viewer’s eye to focus solely on the young girl’s compelling expression. You can interpret her expression in many ways: is her piercing stare confusion, defiance or intrigue? This unapologetic fixed look makes for a powerful image.
Summer Holidays highlights the importance and benefits of considering light, especially when shooting outside. I find the best lighting conditions are a few hours after sunrise or before sunset. The warm and crisp lighting in this image adds depth, further enhancing the burst of laughter from the sisters playing in the grass.
The final two images Hide
and Seek and Tea for Two are especially candid. The children fully engrossed in play enabled me to become an invisible observer. This allowed me to work freely to capture these rare moments, which aren’t forced or created. It’s these moments I love, where I can step back, watch, enjoy and record childhood’s unique narrative. Pictures begin to take on a life of their own, becoming a form of visual poetry.