Trick to getting kids smiling in portraits?

4 years 2 months ago #675696 by Paulina K
When it comes to getting kids smiling and looking cute in shoots, what's  your secret weapon?  I love taking portraits, but must admit that when I learn there are kids, I get nervous because they are sometimes unpredictable and hard to get laughing/smiling.

What's your trick when photographing young kids?


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4 years 2 months ago #675703 by Nikon Shooter
Some kids just won't play along. Some won't stay put as others
don't even react to grimaces or funny things.

With the years, I discovered that the tricks bag is bottomless and
kids are all different… but when it works, it's magic!

 
 


Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
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4 years 2 months ago #675706 by effron
If they don't trust you, or think you're a phony they'll never smile. I'd say take a few minutes with them before you even display your camera and just talk to them. I've seen many "pros" that didn't do kids well, maybe you have it, maybe not?

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
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4 years 2 months ago #675752 by Finn
Squeaky colorful toys 


Photo Comments
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4 years 2 months ago - 4 years 2 months ago #675854 by effron

Finn wrote: Squeaky colorful toys 


Yes, although the op didn't mention what aged kids. Those toys won't work on a grumpy nine year old....

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
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4 years 2 months ago #676251 by KCook
If you like books, these two have quite a lot to say about photographing children -

Portrait Photography: Art and Techniques by Saraya Cortaville

Portrait and Candid Photography Photo Workshop by Erin Manning

Kelly Cook

Canon 50D, Olympus PL2
kellycook.zenfolio.com/

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4 years 2 months ago #676314 by Paulina K

effron wrote:

Finn wrote: Squeaky colorful toys 


Yes, although the op didn't mention what aged kids. Those toys won't work on a grumpy nine year old....



1-4 years old, thank you and thank you all. 


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