Engaging children for better portraits
Entertaining kids will make for more powerful images
Suggest some favourite activities
Children relax quickly when you show interest in their favourite games and activities. As they become absorbed in their activities, great photo opportunities can emerge. Using a wide-angle lens means you can include some environmental details, for example parts of their bedroom or the garden, which help with storytelling in your photographs. Also look for what makes their home unique, and incorporate those elements into your shots for creative results.
Slower shutter for creative results
Panning as kids whiz past will freeze their faces and blur their movements and the background. To do this, use AI Servo AF mode to track focus on your subject. Select a slow shutter speed (between 1/30 sec and 1/250 sec), and try using Shutter Priority, so the camera calculates the aperture and ISO. Half-press the shutter to focus on the child as you pan and they enter the frame, and then fully press the shutter when they’re in front of you.
Play with the rule of thirds
A classic composition rule is to divide a scene into thirds, and then place your subject along one of those imaginary lines. This can make for more creative and visually pleasing results. Try looking for backgrounds that will be interesting in thirds and then wait for the perfect moment to photograph when the child passes that point. Try and work with older children – you may be able to tell them where you’d like them to jump (or in this case, to land). Point out a specific marking on the ground to help them judge where to jump. It’s all about experimenting and having fun, but remember to always communicate with your subjects for the best results.
Head outdoors
Older children can get bored if they’re constantly being cooped up at home for a shoot. A trip to the park can really re-energize them and add some variety to your shots, so getting out is a win-win situation. Look for areas that offer up some gentle shade for flattering lighting, and bright foliage to add some vibrancy to your photographs. Try to avoid top light when outside however, as it can be very unflattering for faces and will create some rather harsh shadows, potentially resulting in some squinting – this is where overcast cloudy days can work better for portraits than bright sunshine overhead!
Experiment with flash
You may like to experiment with using flash for older children. If a child is in their bedroom playing computer games, for example, the lighting may be low and difficult to work with. Using a flash here could be a great option, especially if your camera doesn’t allow high ISOS. Use a diffuser or softbox over the flashgun to soften the lighting for a more flattering effect.