Do you ever feel like your pictures of your kids never turn out how you want them to? You’re not alone! Many parents struggle with taking good candid photos of their children. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated—you just need to know a few tips on how How to Take Better Pictures of Your Kids—Even If You’re Not a Photographer
In October, I went with my toddlers to take some fall pictures. That is the third time in a row that my kids have not had to fight about taking pictures. I have learned over the years what works for my kids. All kids are different, but you would be able to apply some of these tips to help you get better pictures of your kids.
Tips on How to Take Better Pictures of Your Kids
This blog post will discuss some tips for taking great photos of your kids, even if you’re not a professional photographer!
1. Get down to their level
If you want to take a great photo of your kids, one of the best things you can do is get down to their level. This way, they won’t feel like they’re being stared down at, and the photo will look less staged. Getting down on the ground with them will also help you better capture their cute little faces!
Another great tip is to try to capture them in their natural environment. If you’re just taking pictures of them playing or doing something they love, they’ll be more likely to cooperate—and you’ll end up with some really sweet shots.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! With today’s digital cameras, it’s easy to delete photos that don’t turn out well.
2. Use natural light whenever possible
Whenever possible, use natural light for your photos. This will give them a warmer, more natural look. If you’re indoors, try to position yourself near a window so the light is coming in from the side. And outdoors, avoid taking pictures in direct sunlight—it can be too harsh and create unflattering shadows.
Just remember to have fun with it and don’t stress too much if things don’t go perfectly. After all, they’re just kids, and they’re only going to be this age for a little while. So make sure to enjoy every moment!
3. Take lots of pictures
If you’ve ever tried to take a good picture, you know how important it is to get lots of shots. After all, how are you supposed to know which one turned out well if you only take one?
That’s why I always bring my camera everywhere I go and snap tons of pictures. The more shots I get, the higher my chances are of getting that great photo that captures the moment and tells the story. Even when I’m just trying out some new settings or a new angle, it’s always worth taking lots of pictures—after all, you never know what might turn out well! So if you’re looking for a good shot, remember to take lots of photos—you might be surprised at what ends up in your album.
4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different poses
As a parent, I know that taking pictures of kids can be rewarding and challenging. On the one hand, there is nothing quite as sweet as capturing a moment with your little one—those squishy smiles, messy ponytails, or goofy grins.
On the other hand, it can sometimes feel like taking a picture of a tiny person is like taking a picture of an amorphous blob—something that always seems to move in the wrong direction at the wrong time.
But don’t let this stop you from experimenting with different poses and angles! By playing around and trying new things, you might just discover some great shots you would never have thought of before.
So don’t be afraid to get creative, take risks, and try something new—after all, those silly pictures will make the best memories down the road!
5. Try not to use the zoom
When taking photos of my kids, I always try to avoid using zoom lenses. While zoom lenses may seem convenient for getting the perfect shot, they tend to produce blurry photos.
Zooming in typically means increasing the focal length of your lens, which can reduce image quality and clarity.
I recommend taking photos the old-fashioned way: by physically moving closer to or further away from the subject. This will help keep your images sharp and clear, ensuring that all the details and expressions on your child’s face are captured perfectly.
If possible, I also recommend taking shots at various angles and heights; this will help add depth and interest to your photos, making them stand out from the crowd.
Overall, I find that taking pictures with a non-zoom lens produces sharper, more detailed results, making it well worth the extra effort.
After all, taking clear photos of my beautiful kids is definitely one of my top priorities!
So next time you take pics of your kids, put down that zoom lens and get up close and personal instead! You won’t regret it! 🙂
6. Get your kids excited about taking pictures
When it comes to taking pictures with kids, sometimes the most challenging part is getting them excited about getting in front of the camera.
Luckily, you can use a few simple tricks to get your kids interested and involved in taking pictures.
For example, one strategy that always seems to work is letting them choose their own props or outfits. Not only does this make them feel more comfortable in front of the camera, but it also gives the photo session a little bit of personal flair that reflects their unique personalities.
So if you’re looking for a way to help your kids get excited about taking pictures, let them choose what they want to wear or bring along some fun props—they’ll have a blast and will look like stars!
the best camera for children’s portraits
I know I have shared a lot about using a camera, but your phone works great too, and is probably the easiest tool to use for getting better pictures of your kids. If you have a camera, increase the shutter speed for clear images. Kids move a lot, so with the shutter speed increased, you’ll have some sharp pictures.
photography with props for kids
Don’t forget the props. Kids love to focus on something held in their hands, and that’s the best time for you to get those candid pictures.
And that’s it! With these six tips, you’re on your way to becoming the family photographer in no time. Just remember to relax, have fun, and be patient (especially with those energetic toddlers).
If all else fails, there’s always bribery—just make sure someone else is holding the camera while you hand out their favorite snacks.
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More tips on taking pictures of kids
Also, keep in mind that taking great pictures of your children is dependent on how they are feeling. You don’t want to pose them when they’re not happy or cranky. I bribe my kids about going to Target, and they’ll go with a big smile. Find something that your kids can’t resist. If they’re way younger, then your option is to make them happy so you can get those cute, adorable smiles.
Pack a lot of snacks, water, and extra clothes. Get some inspo from Pinterest before the shoot. Make sure both of your outfits are comfortable; there will be some running. Do not forget to have fun as you create some beautiful memories with your kids.
Do you have any other tried-and-true methods for taking great pictures of kids? Share them with us in the comments below!
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