How to Capture Children's Expressions in a Photograph

With cameras flashing at every family get together, most photos end up being worthless or undesirable. Why? Too many times, the focus is on a posed and stiff subject, instead of their natural self. Why do we have millions of pictures of people saying 'cheese!'? If you want to capture the beautiful expressions of children, then you will have to make a few changes!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• camera
• patience
• photography software
• printer

1. 

   Keep your camera handy! With the dawn of digital film, no longer do you have to worry about wasting film. Shoot away all the time, trying different angles and settings. Do not say, 'look at me' or they will assume their 'picture taking' face, or if you need to, do it at the last possible second! I think sunshine is the best lighting for children.

2. 

   Get down to their level. Instead of always towering over them and their little eyes looking upwards, get down on the ground and see life from their perspective. Getting as close as possible keeps the detail sharp in the picture.

3. 

   If they seem to be always moving, try catching them watching tv or eating, or even falling asleep. Don't be too obvious or you will lose the mood.

4. 

   The eyes are the most important thing in a portrait so strong eye contact is great. However, this rule can be broken if the facial expression is appropriate, for instance if the subject looks like they are trying to spy on the person next to them.

5. Edit the photo on your software before printing. There are many fun effects that can make it outstanding. If your resolution is high enough you can crop the picture, cutting out unnecessary items. Play around with black and white as portraits can quite stunning with the contrast.

6. If you found this article interesting, please take a second to rate it.

[elyria]

on 3/15/2009 Good information and well written article. 5* and gave you a recommendation!

[wizardofodds]

on 3/11/2009 I am trying hard to capture my son's million cute expressions on photograph. It is hard, so I appreciate your article on how best we can do that! 5*

[kiwi7]

on 3/10/2009 Great tips! I have noticed that people have a "picture-face."