Tips for Photographing Children

If you are a parent, chances are that you enjoy taking pictures of your children. When my first child was born, my husband and I took hundreds of pictures in the first few months. We though for sure we would slow down our picture-taking furor with subsequent children. However, we were given a digital camera as a gift when our second child was born and we ended up taking even more pictures of her than we did of our son.

We all know the disappointment of taking a picture of a precious moment with our children and having it turn out badly. Lighting, timing and distance can all play a part in producing a poor picture. Digital cameras have gone a long way in ensuring higher quality pictures that are pleasing to the eye. Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you grab your camera to capture a moment in the life of your child:

Oftentimes, pictures turn out poorly because the camera was held in an awkward position. Shots taken from above a child's head can make the child appear dwarfed and odd. It is much better for you to hunch down or get on your hands and knees for a picture of a toddler By getting down next to the child, you capture his exact expression and create a much more engaging image.

Babies are usually difficult to photograph because they are so immobile. Try placing the baby on a blanket or rug and lying down next to him to take the picture. You may even need to let your camera rest on the floor while you take the picture. If the child is able to lie on her stomach and push her head up, lie on your stomach in front of her to snap the photo. These camera positions will get a direct eye-level view of the baby and offer a unique perspective on these little ones.

When photographing older children, you should still attempt to get on their level. The best time to get a picture of an older child is when he or she is doing something that they enjoy. Going to the park, zoo, or giving them a fun project will present great opportunities for you to get pictures. Play a game that the child likes, or let him take you on a tour of his favorite place. Avoid simply taking posed pictures, but rather, catch their candid moments of self-expression and humor. By taking several pictures during an activity, you can use the pictures to tell a story in a special book for relatives or friends, or keep it for yourself.

Pictures are important, especially for sentimental parents who realize the fleeting nature of childhood. By taking thoughtful pictures on your child's level, you will be able to preserve precious memories long into the future.