7 Tips to Take Baby Photos like a Pro
Time flies so fast you won’t even know it
passed you by. That’s the thing with babies too—they grow up rapidly. One day,
he’s just learning how to take the first step, but the next thing you know, he
is already riding a bicycle without the training wheels. If you’re a parent,
this is an emotional dilemma that may have also crossed your mind.
Know
Your Equipment
Have you read your camera manual? Utilize all
the nice features of your device by reading the guide before staging your child
for a pose. Just familiarize yourself with which buttons to press, what are ISO
and its uses, when to increase your shutter speed, and other technical stuff
that can help you get better images. Most importantly, find a way to do away
with the flash; at times, it distracts or upsets your baby while causing
problems like an unnatural glare or a red-eye.
More Is
Always Better
Take as many photos as you can. Don’t worry
about perfecting the angle or the lighting as you take the shots. Anyway, you
can always adjust the lighting afterward if you’re not satisfied with its
initial placement.
Once you think you have enough, sort out the
good ones from the bad images. Promptly delete the not-so-good ones to free up
memory storage to capture more moments.
Choose
Your Concept
There are various ideas when it comes to
concepts, whether you want a candid pose or a staged one. Just make sure every shot is creative but still
looks a bit natural.
Don’t be afraid to take a snapshot when he
looks messy after playing in the garden or when he’s looking too grumpy after
not getting his favorite sugary snack. Or if you want to take something fancy,
dress up your baby and prep his stage.
Consider
the Background
Keep the background artistically organized and
simple. As much as possible, try to avoid a lot of patterns, vivid colors, or
siblings photobombing the shot. You should limit the distractions in the image
to give more focus on your subject. Let your child be the center of attention
to anyone who is looking at the photo.
Find
the Perfect Timing
Babies are sensitive subjects to photograph.
They get bored or distracted easily, and they don’t have any problem in letting
you know when they’re already tired or uncomfortable.
No worries though. All you have to do is to
time the picture-taking perfectly. You know your baby’s schedule and routine,
so take the shots when they are happiest or most energetic within the day.
Keep
the Props to a Minimum
Choose outfits and props that do not require
effort or attention. Moreover, select colors that are neutral so they don’t
steal the spotlight. Does it limit your concept, or do you think your picture
will look too simple for your taste? Then use a visual interest in the scene.
Consider
Your Baby’s Welfare
No picture is worth your child’s comfort or
safety. Therefore, you should think of ways to make your picture-taking sesh a
little less risky and a lot more fun. For instance, you can put your child on
the floor to ensure they don’t roll off and hurt themselves. Or give them a
toy, and play some music to entertain them throughout the activity.
Final
Note
Planning and timing are as important as skills
and concept when it comes to baby photography. But sometimes, candid moments
can surprise you as well.
You don’t have to worry though since you have
just learned basic but effective pointers to get good images. Just remember to
tiptoe the common mistakes of most
photographers, newbies or professionals alike, and you’re good to go.
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the moment.
Although picture-worthy moments may not come as often as you want, it doesn’t
really mean you cannot relish it as it happens. It’s easy to forget that when
you’re on stealth mode or parent photographer mode. Remember to capture moments
and create memories as you bond with your kid.
