PHOTO: Raye Law
As a parent, you want to capture every smile, giggle, step, and birthday your child has. But, just like we can’t all cook like Martha Stewart without a recipe, we don’t always know how to take a great photo!
We talked to professional baby/toddler photographer Raye Law and asked her to give us 10 easy, quick tips for taking photos just like the pros. It tuns out you don’t need a fancy schmancy camera or a professional backdrop to take a great photo…you just need to follow these simple rules.
Go to the next page to read Raye’s 10 Tips for Great Toddler Photos.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
1. Have fun – Don’t announce that you’re going to be taking pictures. Let them play as usual and keep that camera close by. Let images tell a story, instead of concentrating on any posed shots. Blow bubbles, play chase…get them in a playful mood and the rest will follow.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
2. No cheese please! – Toddlers’ natural expressions are the best. Try to remember things during the week that made them laugh; Whether it be saying a funny word like “stinky” or asking them to sing their favorite song, a natural smile is always the best one.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
3. Keep it simple – Kids are not formal by nature. Dress them in simple clothing and keep the focus on them, not what they’re wearing. Remember: Let them get dirty if they want to!
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PHOTO: Raye Law
4. Let them be them – It’s okay if they have their favorite toy or blanket, the point is that you’re letting them be themselves. Capture what makes them happy, and you’ll get a fantastic shot.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
5. Take them outside – Toddlers usually love the outdoors and exploring. The natural light will also let you turn that flash off which creates a much more flattering image. Find some open shade and shoot in the early morning or late afternoons.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
6. Little things matter – Eye contact is wonderful, but also remember to focus on your toddler’s other sweet features, such as their feet, hands, or that perfect curl they have going down the back of their neck.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
7. Be patient – The beauty of digital cameras is that you can overshoot. Be patient and keep shooting until that special moment happens.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
8. Closer – Don’t be afraid to get in close and on their level. Try different angles until you see the sparkle of “catchlights” in their eyes from a nearby window or the sky.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
9. Tired of chasing? – If your toddler has a hard time staying in one place, grab a small chair or wicker basket for them to get in. That way, you’ll have them sitting still for at least a few minutes of shooting.
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PHOTO: Raye Law
10. Bribes are okay – Don’t feel guilty for bribing. Mention their favorite food (ice cream and candy always work!) and you’ll be surprised at the smiles and patience you can get.
Raye Law is a professional photographer in Arkansas where she specializes in portraits of newborns and children. You can view more of her work at www.rayelawphotography.com
A professional photographer gives us the tricks of the trade.
