Photographing Kids: How to take better snapshots of your children By Sharael Kolberg, Portrait Photographer www.sharaelkolberg.com Whether you’re new to photography or have been talking family snapshots for a number of years, here are a few simple tricks that will instantly improve the quality of your images. 1. Prevent Shutter Delay: Do your research when purchasing a digital camera and buy one that does not have a shutter delay. Or, if you are still using an older camera with a delay, it’s time to think about upgrading. These days, most new point-and-shoot cameras do not have a shutter delay. I recommend the compact Canon Powershot, which runs about $250. You no longer have to be frustrated about missing the shot. 2. Declutter Your Background: One of the easiest ways to turn your snapshot into looking like a portrait is to pay attention to the background. If you have a cluttered background, it will distract from the focal point of your image—your children. There are a few ways to improve your background: a) Get closer to the subject so that your subject fills the frame b) Move to a location that has a less busy background, like in front of a fence or wall c) Use a sold backdrop: throw a solid-colored blanket over a couch that has a busy pattern 3. Get In Focus: Auto-focus can be very frustrating because sometimes it will focus on something other than what you want it to. So pay attention. Most cameras have a red light that will blink when you’re taking the photo. Make sure that read light is over the subject that you want in focus—not on the tree behind him. 4. Improve Your Lighting: Every camera has a built in light meter, but again, it might not always meter properly. So to avoid having images that are too bright or too dark, the easiest thing to do is to take photos in even light—like in the shade—rather than in bright sun. 5. Watch Out For Shadows: When photographing outdoors—be aware of shadows on your subject’s face. If there are too many shadows, move your subject or use your flash. 6. Use Your Flash: When photographing in low-light conditions (indoors), try NOT to use your flash because it will create harsh shadows (typical of snapshots). To get a better photo, place your subject by a window where there is more light or use a higher film speed, like 800. Also, when photographing outside in bright light, USE your flash. This will fill in shadows on the face and made the image for flattering. 7. Go Candid: Every parent wants a photo of their child sitting pretty and smiling for the camera, but keep in mind that your child has a range of emotions. Try capturing all of those sides of your child’s personality. Also, candid shots will have more of an emotional impact. Capture your child just being a kid. 8. Try A New Angle: Be creative and try taking photos from different angles. Stand on your couch and shoot looking down at your child, or get on the ground and shoot at their level. It will bring a different feel to your images. 9. Educate Yourself: There are numerous resources available to help you improve your photography skills. Take a class, read a book, browse the Web. The more you learn, the better your images will become. Have fun with it. 10. Hiring A Pro: When all else fails, consider hiring a professional children’s portrait photographer to capture those essential moments in your child’s life. Some things to consider are: Your budget, the photographer’s experience (ask to see a portfolio), the photographer’s personality (is it a good fit for your family), the photographer’s style (does it fit with what you want), location (does he/she live in your area). Most importantly is to communicate your thoughts, wants, needs to the photographer so that you get the images you are hoping for.