Portrait Photography

Portrait photography is one of the best methods of capturing a family's moments. Whether it be a family picture for the Christmas card or the regular yearly picture, a portrait will capture this moment in time for them. However, when it comes time for taking the portrait of infants and children, special items needs to be addressed. The following will help you to get the best out of your portrait.

Before the subject infant or child arrives, make sure that the set is fully prepared for them. This will prevent the child from getting nervous about having their picture taken and prevent the infant from being fussy while waiting around.

The background should be ready beforehand, however, if you haven't discussed what background you should be using with the parent, have the backgrounds prepared so that when the decision is made you can get it together quickly and efficiently. Remember that a badly chosen background can ruin the portrait. Make sure you offer advice to the parent based on what color the child is wearing.

When getting ready to take the portrait, make sure that all distractions are removed from the area. The child's or infant's attention should be on yourself. Sometimes, even removing the family members can be of help. If the child is nervous without their mother or father in the room, have them stand behind or slightly to the side of you. This way the child's focus will be in the area which you need. If sibling's are waiting for their picture to be taken, as well, remove them from the room. You don't want the subject's attention on them and you don't want them to get nervous while waiting.

Posing and behavior issues can be an issue when taking a portrait of a child or infant. You want the smile to be natural, not forced. Have some props ready when you are dealing with a small child and make sure you talk to the parent before you use them. The worse thing that can happen for a photographer is holding up a prop of the Cookie Monster, only to discover the child has a fear of the Cookie Monster. Another thing to be aware of with props, is that too many props can be confusing to the child. Make sure the props are color coordinated with the child and perhaps let the child hold on to a toy while taking their picture. This will keep the child's hands busy. Remember, taking the picture is best with a happy child.

Making the child smile and laugh should be your goal. If the photographer is not comfortable around children, taking pictures of them should not even be done. When the photographer is uncomfortable, it will show in the portrait. This is where you make a game out of taking their picture. All children love games and they'll take a better picture if they feel involved.

When a parent brings their child or infant to you to take a portrait, they are, in effect, trusting you to do your best. If you start out fully prepared for your session and can make the child smile, you will have gained the trust of your client and they will return to you for future portraits.