Photo Shoot Ideas for Kids
How to Take Unique and Memorable Pictures for Different Age Groups
Sep 3, 2009
Babies and young kids can be one of the most difficult subjects to capture during a photo shoot because of their antsy nature, but it doesn’t mean one should stick to the standard protocol. Just remember to create a safe environment for the child and remain patient. The following ideas will provide any level photographers good ideas for snapping unique and memorable pictures.
Facial Expressions and Photo Shoot Ideas for Infants
Infants are 12 months old or younger. Since they are not yet fully developed, their expressions are usually just three—mad and sad (crying or about to cry), normal or happy. Any other look is the moment to discover and capture—complex expressions that show relaxation, satisfaction, surprise, “none of your business” attitude, chilled out stance, etc.
There is no surefire way to produce those moments, but it requires trying different tactics whether it’s playing peek-a-boo or showing an arresting image or scene. If expressions are hard to work with, capture them while asleep. Place them on different surfaces including on friendly animals (e.g., sleeping puppies), bags, laundry baskets filled with clothes and towels, or a carved out watermelon, which can resemble a womb.
Photo Shoot Ideas for Toddlers
Toddlers are in the 12-36 month age range. Usually walking and active, toddlers dressed in uniforms, costumes and outfits that mimic characters and older adults will produce many unique and memorable portraits. Some examples include: a boy dressed in a suit carrying books or rolling a suitcase next to a towering office building, or a girl in an apron presenting an apple or snack to an infant. Remember to plan and determine the scenario based on the child’s personality.
Expressions that work well for portraits include the look of worry, contemplation, amazement, accomplishment and puzzlement.
Photo Shoot Ideas for Preschool Kids and Older
There is a bit more flexibility with kids in this age group who are three years old and up. Interesting ideas include composing a portrait shot that makes the child impersonate a parent’s mannerism, habit, hand movement or gesture that is particular and pronounced; capturing them yelling and adding a Photoshop background element that makes it look as if they are angry for a cause (e.g., a labor strike); or posing them on a dinner table holding a silver fork on the left hand and a knife on the other ready to cut a piece of meat.
Photo Shoot ideas for kids are endless with many possibilities for unique and memorable pictures. Whatever the age group, remember to think out of the box and continue to peruse works of other talented photographers such as Anne Geddes, Sally Mann and Linnea Lenkus.
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