My Secret To Photographing Kids

Do you want to know my secret to photographing kids?

Well the secret is patience. I know it’s not a big eye opening secret, but that’s it. Easier said than done.

When I photograph kids, I also play with them and talk to them and get down on their level. I give them actions so they don’t just stand in front of the camera and smile. For example "hold hands and walk in front of me” or lift your sister up with her hands in the air smiling at the sky and turn in circles.”

The in-betweens though, they are my favorite. The moment after the shot or when they are just being siblings. As a photographer you have to watch and observe, and that’s when the patience comes in.

Get the traditional smiling-at-the camera shots, but then let go and have fun yourself as the photographer, whether your are the mom, hobbyist, or professional photographer. Get outside the box and photograph who kids really are- super energetic, fun and loving. They always have a better idea for a photograph if you will just sit back and watch.

Have you ever done a photo scavenger hunt before? My friend Kristina started one up and she shares all about it on her blog. Click here and you can see the list she made and do it too.