When I arrived at the Manning family's farm down a quiet backroad in Whitakers, NC, the backdrop was nothing short of spectacular. The vast green fields of their family farm, the beautiful, friendly horses, and a sense of peace in the fall air—it was the perfect place to capture the Manning family in their element.
As I set up my camera and started working with Libby and Aaron, their young sons Wyatt and Michael, as well as Libby's parents, I had a little secret up my sleeve. I handed over a camera to both Wyatt and Michael, allowing them to take in the magic of photography and explore how the camera works. Their eyes lit up with excitement as I explained how they could take pictures of each other (see photos below), the horses, and even their adorable cat, Boots.
The result? A burst of life in every shot. The boys' perspective added an entirely new dimension to the session. Their photos were candid, sincere, and filled with pure delight, and what’s more is that a sense of ownership over the session was created for the boys, which greatly improved the overall experience for everyone!
Shooting children doesn't have to be stressful. Here are a few tips for capturing lively and engaging photos of children in your sessions, whether you're planning a photo session or simply capturing memories at home:
Empower Them: Give children a camera or a smartphone and show them how it works. Let them take a few shots. This sense of ownership can go a long way in helping stubborn or shy kids get comfortable in front of the camera.
Use Playful Activities: Encourage fun activities during the session. Whether it's playing with pets, blowing bubbles, or running through fields, these activities can lead to genuine expressions and lively photos.
Wait for Candid Moments: Be patient and ready to capture candid moments. Children are natural explorers, and these unscripted moments often result in the most authentic photos.
Engage in Conversation: Talk to the children, ask about their favorite games, toys, or activities. Engaging in conversations helps them relax and opens up opportunities for genuine expressions.
Bring Props and Toys: Bring along props or toys that children love. These items can help children feel more at ease and add an element of playfulness to the session.
The Manning family's session was a heartwarming reminder of the magic that unfolds when children become active participants in the photoshoot. Are you ready to capture your family's unique story? Reach out today and let's create joyful memories together.
